Day 30: What Changed This Month and What You Hope Will Happen Next Month

This month I became poorer and richer at the same time. I became poorer because of all my activities this month...Leslie's prom and graduation, my second fun run, movie screenings, almost every one in the house got sick, Mirko and Aily's birthdays, the long weekend. With all of that, along with my regular expenses, my wallet suffered. Parang nag-penitensya din. But also because of that I become richer. Happy memories are created. Priceless memories. I only hope that in the coming months no one in the family will get sick again. More than the expenses it's the worrying that bothers me so much. And I do hope I could find other ways to earn additional income. So I can do more travels, hikings, eat outs with friends, movies, or just pigging out with my family at home in the coming months.   

This is the conclusion of my 30-Day Blogging Challenge. I enjoyed answering the questionnaires. I admit I struggle keeping up since I'm a busy bee but I did make it to the end. Yehey! Hooray to me! (clap, clap, clap). Next challenge please. :-)

Day 29: A Picture of Yourself

This is my current Facebook profile photo. I asked my daughter what would I say about this image, she said "Gorgeous....nuff said!".

Keeping Up With The Family's Lenten Tradition

For six years now, it has been our family's practice to watch the movie Apocalypto every Lenten season. We don't know the significance of this movie with the Lent or if it gives meaning to our being Catholics during this season of repentance. Still, every Lent we watched this movie. A yearly affair for the family. Like the marathon of horror movies every halloween. Well, that's a poor reference. 

Day 28: The Month You Were The Happiest This Year and Why

It's too early in the year to compare, it is just March. But taking into account the first three months of the year, I would say my favorite is January. It is the start of the new year which signifies a new beginning, a new hope. And also on this month I had my biggest trip so far. Me and four of my friends went to Northern Mindanao. I did extreme sports such as water rafting and zipline. I did travel without my husband, for the first time. And because of that trip I am looking forward for more adventures with my friends. And to more travel of course. February and March had been great too. On February I had my first fun run and on March my daughter attended her prom and graduated in high school. Looking forward for more good things to come this year.

Day 27: Talk About Your Siblings

I'm the eldest and he is the second born. Meet Richard. People told us that he is the male version of me and I am the female version of him. No way! But among my siblings he is the most kind, the most understanding and the most patient. He is our music man. I was born on September, 1976 and he was born on August the following year. So when his birthday comes he doesn't call me 'Ate' until it's my birthday. He said we are equal. I hope that God will bless him and his wife a baby soon. I love you bro!

They say that there's always one in the family, and he is the one. This is Alex (with his son Mirko in the picture). Ang kapatid kong may sariling mundo. If not for his son my parents would throw him out of the house already. He is so proud. He's not talking with anybody at the house unless he is asking anything from us. Ever since his wife left him his always angry at the world and because of this he becomes an irresponsible   parent. Tsk...tsk...tsk...

My little sister who becomes my brother. From Jennifer to Jm. But no matter. She is the most reliable among my siblings. I can count on her all the time. I just wish for her to find a better job.

Our youngest is Kristoffer, known to us as Bobby (our slang for baby). As our bunso he really is a baby to us all. He's super malambing, super makulit and super sumpungin. He does have his own family now. His own baby girl, my cute niece Aily. As with my other siblings I wish him the best.

Day 26: Your Religious Beliefs

I was born, baptized and raised as a Catholic. I believe in Jesus Christ. I believe in Mama Mary. I believe in the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. I believe that if you are a sinner and die you will be thrown into hell. But I believe that if you accept Christ into your life you will be safe. I believe that everyone should pray always, not just to ask for anything, but to thank for everything. I believe that every house should have a bible. Everyone must attend Sunday masses but not limit oneself on Sundays only. I believe that we should pray the rosary. Above all else religion is not a routine, it is important to have faith.

Wednesday Happy Thoughts

Never forget to be grateful for everything given to you. Be reminded and always be thankful. Here goes....

1. Yellow Cab dinner with friends before the long vacation
2. Pure happiness on my daughter face during her graduation day
3. Finally, Leslie agreed and decided to take Journalism in college
4. My kind friends who understands me during my poorest moment
5. An improvement on my running time 
6. No more cough, colds and fever for me
7. My husband and I have little money to spend this long weekend but still laughing about it
8. Chocolates from my boss (I don't know what for)
9. Our yearly 'Apocalypto' movie watching ( a Lenten tradition) 
10. The 4-day long vacation....rest finally! Yes! 

to know how this started and for credits on the image, click here.

Day 25: 10 Ways To Win Your Heart

To whom it may concern, here are 10 ways to win my heart...

1. Close-up smile
2. Bouquet of flowers (not roses, pls.)
3. Delicious food, especially those personally prepared for me
4. Line from a relevant song, sung to me in a very sincere way
5. Gifts like books, gadgets, bags, shoes etc.
6. A listening ear and an understanding heart during those times I needed someone beside me
7. A kind but believable praise 
8. Sensible and intellectual conversation
9. A very good sense of humor
10. Just be honest

Oh!...Shucks!!!

It just occurred to me that I missed the Earth Hour last March 23. My family and I never failed to join this WWF organized event to show our support in raising awareness about climate change. We participated by turning off non-essential lights for 1 hour. Even if we are the only house participating in our neighborhood we do it anyways. And I missed it last Saturday. I texted my sister if they participated last Saturday and they did. I think I slept it through. You see, I am not feeling well this past couple of weeks and I can't slow down to take some rest since my schedule is full. I only have a half of Saturday free to take a rest and I guess I used it well and woke up early the following morning for my fun run and the Earth Hour completely forgotten. Until today. 

I know it's not a big deal but I feel that I owe Mother Earth something for missing the event. (Drama!) And as a retribution I will commit myself to run 10K for the NatGeo: Earth Day Run 2013. I halfheartedly said 'yes' to my friend Dinah when she told me that we will run 10K this time for the NatGeo Fun Run since I don't think I can do it. I may be dead by the time I reach the finish line. Finishing 5K was my greatest achievement and I don't think I can top that. But as she said I had to push my limits. Sigh.... It is settled then. It's 10K this time. I'll be bringing my daughter, too. And some of my office mates to make the event more fun. Feel free to join here. 

This Is Not Selfishness

Day 24: Things You want To Say To 5 Different People

• To my husband, I love you. Thank you for the patience, the unconditional love and for accepting me inspite of my flaws. Times are hard especially when money is the problem. But I am glad that we are taking it well. Unlike before. We're almost killing each other...literally. I am happy with what's happening now. 
• My dear daughter, Congratulations on your graduation and good luck on your endeavor to college life. I wish you all the best. Never forget that your father and I will support you all the way to your dreams.
• To my bff's Rona and Dinah (yes, they come in package), I love you guys. Thanks for the adventures and I'm looking forward for more. They say that if you have crazy friends then you have everything. Napapakanta tuloy ako ng "Na sa'yo na ang lahat" (ala Daniel Padilla).
• To my parents, Thank you for bringing me into this world. I owe you both my life. I know I let you down a couple of times  but I promise to make up with you for the rest of my life. Babawi ako.
• To my bestfriend Marlon, I miss you. How are you. You've been busy. I hope you are not compromising your health. Say my hello's to your wife and kid.  

Day 23: Something You Always Think 'What If..." About

My greatest regret in life is not finishing my college degree. I always think that what if I didn't rush on getting married and having a family I might have a better job, higher pay and more rewarding career. I am not complaining about my family life. It's been hard but it's equally rewarding. I have an awesome daughter and a wonderful husband who loves me very much. But what if I did finish my college, we could have a better life. But then again, no. I think that whatever happen it is for a purpose. And it is up to me to make myself and my family life better minus the college degree.

Day 22: 10 Things About You People Don't Really Expect

I bet you didn't expect these from me. Here goes...

1. I dream (until now) of becoming a ramp model.
2. I got in trouble during high school and I brought a fake parent to the guidance councilor. (Shhh...)
3. I love cacti.
4. Although my parents won't admit it, they favor me more than my siblings.
5. I am afraid of the dentists.
6. I daydream half of my working time.
7. I have a secret admirer/stalker.
8. I still watch cartoons.
9. I love sniffing new magazines and books.
10. I had a brief (on-line) affair.

Friday Letters

Dear Daughter, Congratulations on your high school graduation. You made it. We made it. Soon you will embark on a more serious life as a college student. Have faith and stay strong. Your daddy and I believe in you. And you always made us proud. I love you so much baby. Dear Husband, Is it your first time to use a camera? Why can't you take a good picture? I am not even asking for a very nice shot just something that made sense. It is a very momentous event. It's our daughter's graduation! Thank God the school had it's official photographer or else I will really kill you! But, anyways, thanks for the dinner. Dear Flu, Why now? I have a fun run coming and I can't miss it. I know I've been busy and taking slow is out of my vocabulary for a couple of weeks now but I've been taking medicine to prevent any sickness. Can't you be delayed for more days? Holy week's vacation is coming and I'd be welcoming you by then. Please. Dear Teacher Von, Thank you for being so sweet and supportive to my daughter. She is so fond of you and now I know why. You are  a good teacher and a good person. Thank you so much. Dear Casey, Congratulations for being the valedictorian. And thank you for acknowledging my daughter, your bestfriend, in your appreciation speech. It meant a lot to her, and to me. Dear Aily, I miss the chubby you. Please get well soon. Dear Fellow Runners, Please bear with me this Sunday. I promise to make it to the run but please understand that I am sick and will be taking it very, very slow. Hey, it's a fun run anyway not a race. 

Day 21: Something You Can't Seem To Get Over

Well, this is hard. See, I am the type of a person who doesn't wallow on the past. For me whatever happens happen. We can learn from our mistake and learn not to do it again. And the best thing to do is to move on from the past. 

Day 20: The Last Argument You Had

If I were ask this question early last year I can list down hundreds, even thousands, of times I had an argument with my husband. After our almost separation I don't seem to recall any arguments between us anymore. We might be bickering some times but it's more of us kidding around than being serious about it. Even here at the office, I don't have any recent disagreement with the most irritating person I met. I am just happy person nowadays.  

Day 19: Something That Never Fails To Make You Feel Better

I actually feel sick today. Since last night I have colds and headache and it's getting worse. I can't be sick. I have a movie date tomorrow with friends. Plus Leslie's graduation is on Friday. I'll visit Aily later.  Oh, I almost forgot our fun run on Sunday. See, I have a very busy week. Kaya bawal magkasakit. While others prefer soup and sleep to make themselves better. Me? I want to go home, eat a blueberry muffin, drink hot tea while watching Mulan. This never failed to make me feel better. I guess I'll be doing that later. 

Wednesday Happy Thoughts

Never forget to be grateful for everything given to you. Be reminded and always be thankful. Here goes....

1. It's Summer!
2. Ice cream at the office.
3. Today is Mirko's graduation day...
4. ...and he has a dance presentation.
5. On Friday my Unica Hija will graduate in high school. 
6. Another free movie screening tomorrow.
7. Aily was admitted at Amisola Hospital yesterday due to dehydration caused by amoebiasis, but she is getting well now.
8. Paul and the singkamas.
9. Joseph Gordon-Levitt movies marathon. 
10. My new pilates mat c/o my sister JM. Now, I just have to enroll a pilates class so I may able to use it.

to know how this started and for credits on the image, click here.

Day 18: Disrespecting Parents

I am a parent now and of course I am against disrespecting one's parent.  I am not a perfect daughter but I never disrespect my parents. I grew up in a house where there are rules to follow and disobedience results to reprimand. My parents are not strict. They gave me and my siblings chance to express ourselves, they let us have fun and every weekend we go out to bond as family. But they don't tolerate violence and bickering among us siblings. As I said I'm not perfect and I know I hurt my parents when I elope with my then boyfriend (who is now my husband).That is the only time I  defy them. I regret that. The part that I rush things, didn't finish my college and going on hiding with my husband-to-be. Today, my husband and I are making up with my parents by being a good parents as well.

Summer, Officially!

I've been feeling the heat couple of weeks now, but the summer in the Philippines officially started yesterday, as announced by PAGASA. Classes are over. Mirko and Leslie are busy practicing for their graduation later this week. And  Aily's swimsuit is ready. My father already prepared our inflatable pool for his grandkids. We don't have any swimming plans yet. Whether on the beach or at my bff's clubhouse swimming pool where we frequent every summer. I guess everybody's busy. Well, for now we will make do with our inflatable pool. We will be preparing barbeque while the kids deep in the pool. Just to beat the heat. Afterwards, we can have our family movie marathon together. Oh, I love summer!

Day 17: Things That Make You Scared

I am afraid of talking horses. This is not an irrational fear. My fear is based on a personal experience. See, I don't really like horses. I am sure that if I get near them they will kick me to eternity. Plus I hate that they drool. Ewww!!! See, I work near Binondo. And 'kalesa' (horse carriage)  is still a popular commute here. One time, my husband and I are riding in tandem with his motorcycle along Abad Santos St. Suddenly I heard somebody talked. Someone said "Hi, Ehms". I turned to look who it was. And I am face to face with a black horse, drooling and looking straight at me. I want to scream but I can't. Instead I keep on pounding on my husband's backside. When he look behind he already knows why I am being frantic. He then drives away to get me out of there. I don't care if you believe me or not. But, I am really afraid of talking horses. Or even if they don't talk. Just horses. (shivers...)  

So Undercover Movie Screening

I am once again a winner of a free movie screening. It's for the movie 'So Undercover' starring Miley Cyrus.  Thanks to Nuffnang and Adidas NEO. I'll be bringing my bff Dinah and we will be seeing our friend Teng there. See yah!

Music Monday #021 - Pitch Perfect

I only learned about the movie 'Pitch Perfect' from my daughter this month. She won't stop talking about it. So one time I tried watching it...and then I caught the 'pitch-slapped fever'.  I love everything about the movie. Especially the songs. Here's three of them...

  

Beca's audition song

I love the shower scene

Beca and Jesse's song

Come join Music Monday and share your songs with us. Rules are simple. Leave ONLY the ACTUAL LINK POST here and grab the code below and place it at your blog entry. You can grab this code at LadyJava's Lounge Please note these links are STRICTLY for Music Monday participants only. All others will be deleted without prejudice.   PS: Because of spamming purposes, the linky will be closed on Thursday of each week at midnight, Malaysian Time. Thank you!

Day 16: 3 Things You Are Proud of About Your Personality

This is me being boastful (ha,ha). Here are 3 things I am proud of about my personality:

1. Optimistic - Although sometimes I look pensive with what's happening in my life, I am actually thinking of things to make the situation better. I do believe that God will never give me a burden I cannot carry. And another thing, if I start worrying about my problems I will get ugly. So, no to negative thinking.
2. Easy to get along with - Well ask my gazillion of friends. Just kidding. But I do have lots of friends. Though there quite a few whom I consider my true friends. But for me walang masamang tinapay. I will accept you for who you are because you are my friend. Everybody has a different personality. Others may have negative opinions about each other but for me as long as you're not doing anything bad towards me we will remain friend and you will have my full understanding.
3. Open-minded - Honestly, I am not judgmental. I will hear your side of the story and accept your reasons. I am not perfect so who am I to say what's right and what's wrong. And in return I don't expect other people to be as acceptable as I am. That's life and it's the only one we're living.

     

Liars Go To Hell

What I hate the most are dishonest people. Especially those caught lying but still denying. I recently came about a certain information that could ruin the peaceful life my friend she is now living. And this is because of her boyfriend's doing. I tried to confront the jerk...I mean the guy. He accuses me of making up stories. OMG! The nerve of that guy. All the evidence are there and he still denies everything. I chose to be quiet instead. But the news finally reached my friend and she confronted the guy. You have to understand my friend is naive and she love her boyfriend so she is not wholeheartedly convince it's the guy's fault. Whatever! A liar is a liar. And the more he denies it the more I see his guilt. He hurt himself just to prove to my friend that he done her no wrong. Idiot! Clearly, it is a desperate act of a guilty man. He knows that my friend has a soft heart and by hurting his self he'll have her sympathy. Well, bahala na sila. I already said my piece. It's up to my girl friend what to do. I'm still here for her. But I am worried for her still.

Saturday 9: Hakuna Matata

Saturday 9: Hakuna Matata

1. Sam is crazy for The Lion King. Do you have a favorite Disney movie? The Lion King is actually one of my favorite Disney movie. But the movie I watched for a hundred times and will watch for a hundred times more is "Mulan". My daughter and I called it our 'feel-good' movie. 
2. The song tells us that Hakuna Matata "means no worries". Is something worring you right now? As I stated in my previous post I am worried about my daughter's decision in regards with her choice for a college course. And just last night I am worried about my friends current relationship with his jerk boyfriend. 
3. Who is the most optimistic person you know? My bff's Dinah and Rona. Always seeing the positive out of all the negatives in our lives. 
4. Elton John wrote "Hakuna Matata" but didn't record it. Name a song Sir Elton is famous for singing. "Your Song" my favorite.
5. Can you play the piano? Nope. I don't play any musical instrument.
6. Congratulations! You just won a guided African Safari Tour! 8 days in Zambia and Botswana for you and a friend. All expenses paid, and allowing you access to breathtaking, unforgettable sights. It takes at least 30 hours to get there, and before you go you'll need yellow fever and hepatitis and medication to prevent malaria. Are you up for it? Definitely! I don't mind a few needles and the long hours of travel. I know that whatever is waiting for me there is worth everything. I love to travel and Africa is one of the places I want to visit someday.
7. There's been a mistake. You really won a 4-night Disney Bahamas Cruise for two. Are you relieved or disapointed that you'll be partying with a guy in a Simba suit on the Lido Deck instead of observing a real lion in the wild? I don't mind doing some partying and I love to go on a cruise but I would be disapointed not seeing a real lion instead. I prefer the wild I guess.
8. Let's bring this back to real life -- do you have any vacation plans? Yes! My husband and our friends already booked a ticket for Davao this June and Palawan on October. And we have a tour on Cambodia and Vietnam February next year.
9. Describe your luggage. Is it durable and high quality? Or are you like Crazy Sam, who has been known to use an Old Navy shopping bag as her carry-on? I have a very durable luggage that I only use once because I usually travel light.

Day 15: The Best Things That Happen To You This Week

Obviously, the best thing that happen to me this week is finding out that my daughter passed her college entrance examination at my alma mater. She is now a certified "Iskolar ng Bayan". Of course, she is not yet enrolled so it's not official, but it will soon happen. As soon as she decides on her chosen course. 

Friday Letters

Dear Daughter, Congratulations! You are now a certified 'Iskolar ng Bayan'. I knew you can do it. Goodluck with whatever career you want to pursue. We are right behind you supporting you all the way. Dear Hot Weather, What the....!!! Lower down the heat please. It's dehydrating. Dear Salary, You were just in my hands hours ago, where did you go? Dear Work, You are no fun anymore. I am thinking of quitting but I can't. I don't know what to do. Dear Salbaheng Manong Driver, Karma will get you. Dear God, I thank You that my brother suffers only from minor injuries during his accident cause by a very stupid person. He lost his work though but I know he will find work soon, with your good grace. Thank you for guiding my daughter during her entrance examination at PUP. She passed. Thank you for guiding me and my husband with whatever decisions we are making recently. We kind of agree with each other most of the time. Less quarrel, more love. And I'm sorry for being too busy to attend mass. Will make up for it. Dear Exercise, I never thought I will miss you. I've been busy with my house work and by doing it I thought I was compensating my lack of dancing and running. But no. I will find time for you, I promise. 

Day 14: Something Disgusting You Do

Uhmmm....I think I'll pass on this one. Sorry....

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Day 13: A Date You Would Love To Go On

It would be a dream come true if I get to date any one of these guys....or maybe both, I don't mind. Robbie Williams and Wentworth Miller are my biggest crushes. And a date with them would be heaven. Whatever it might be. A movie date and eat out after. A romantic one, complete with dinner by candle light and sweet dancing.  Or even a simple get together, wherever, talking about anything for hours. What matters is I get to spend time with them. Oh I really wish...

Live Your Style with Adidas NEO

Black and white. That is how far my style goes. I am not just simple, I'm plain. I wear the most comfortable clothes with the most neutral colors. I never out stand in a crowd. You could pass by me and never take a second look. Well, that was me before. I am now rediscovering myself. I go out more. I tried things that I thought I could not do like water rafting and zipline. I do outdoor sports now. I run. I do zumba. I meet more people. I guess change is good. And I am living my new style with more colors and fresh looking fashion. I am adding a subtle twist in my style by being sporty with a little spice for added attention. It makes me more carefree and happy. 

Embrace fun, spontaneity and the unexpected twist in fashion when the adidas NEO Label Spring 2013 collection hits stores in January to March.

Living a carefree journey that lets teens make their own style, NEO will capture attention with unique and innovative fashion and design twists on Spring merchandise. Products have multiple purposes or added value.

NEO will release a fresh product offering each month, spotlighting a fashion trend interpreted in a different way. In March patterns are the highlight, featuring vibrant waves of colour, with subtle patterns that appear to be one thing but on close inspection reveal another. These will include camouflage prints and edgy takes on adidas NEO slogans with a focus on windbreakers aznd shirts. Sporty, street and lifestyle footwear silhouettes with strong colour and graphic links create the look.

NEO footwear is available in SM and select Robinson's Department Stores nationwide.

Day 12: Things You Want To Say To An Ex

I believe in the saying 'Past is Past' and as far as the word goes...EX, meaning past, gone, forgotten. I don't want to indulge on the past but for my blog's sake I will answer this topic. And if ever, by some miracle, I can talk to my ex this is what I will say to him. I'll put it into letter to make it more personal.

Dear You,

         Hi. How have you been? I hope you are okay wherever you are. And I sincerely hope you are happy with whatever situation or relationship you have. I keep on telling you before to move on and forget about me. For the longest time I keep telling you that and then I realize it's more like I am telling it to myself. What happened between us is hard to forget. What we had was real. But you hurt me. You betrayed me. You lied to me over and over again. You lied in my face. And during that time I was fool enough to believe everything you said. Even when the truth was slapped in my face I keep on telling myself that you will never hurt me because I love your mom and your mom was good to me. But you did anyways. And you have the nerve to tell me that you lie because you don't want me to leave. To tell you the truth I can't trust you anymore. I can't even trust you to be my friend. I just want to forget everything about you. And I succeed in doing that. I am glad that whatever happened happens. Because it lead me to where I am now. I am happy with my family. And they are my world. I would like to thank you anyways for everything. Good and bad. Happy and sad. You made me stronger, bolder and braver. I really owe you that. But that is all. I wish you good health and a happy life. Take care. 

Goodbye,

Me

Wednesday Happy Thoughts

Never forget to be grateful for everything given to you. Be reminded and always be thankful. Here goes....

1. Bonding time with Leslie and her Ninang Teng while watching Oz.
2. Leslie's prom and her pretty dress.
3. I am very thankful my brother only suffer minor bruises after an accident
4. Life of Pi movie watching with my siblings last Sunday.
5. Divergent and Insurgent books...addictive.
6. My other (new) addiction...Pitch Perfect
7. Pork Sisig...not helping with my weight problem.
8. My husband being super sweet without any reason why
9. My new cactus plant
10. My prodigal sister-in-law returns (Roda), and everything is forgiven and forgotten.

to know how this started and for credits on the image, click here.

Leslie's Seniors Night

Last week is a very busy week for me and my family. One of the reason is my daughter's prom night. I know that is it her prom  and it's not a family event but we were all excited because we rarely witness my daughter wear a dress or even a make-up. Like me, she is very comfortable with baggy clothes and just ponytails on her hair. Make-up are alien to us. Good thing my daughter was also looking forward for her Seniors Night. She told me that she surrender herself to us as long as we make her pretty. See for yourselves.

red and black 

at the venue

the souvenir