Friday, November 30, 2007

Good bye November... see you next year!


NOVEMBER is my favorite month of the year...

Well, it used to be December but ever since I met Mike, November became my happiest (or blessed) month ever!

Here are some of our events/milestones summary:

November 29, 2003: The night Mike proposed on top of The Peak Tower, Makati.

November 4, 2004: I gave birth to a very cutie, pretty baby girl, Samantha Gabrielle.

November 4, 2005: Sam's first birthday party! con-celebrated her birthday with the success of her Hirschsprung Disease operation.

November 19, 2005: Got my early Christmas gift from Mike. My first-ever brand new car! He paid 50% downpayment for my car..and the balance, ako na daw taya for monthly amortization! abuso na daw...hahaha!

November 30, 2006: Our dream house was finally completed and was ceremonially turned-over to us. We have our own house na! Woohoohoo!

November 12-15, 2007: Got lots and lots of moolah!! (as if ang dami noh! lol.) Well aside from bonuses, commissions and incentives from our company, got other source of "blessings" pa. Really beyond my expectations! :)

The husband would always say if November is my "happiest" month of the year, this is his "saddest" month of the year.

Why?!?

Well...every November he's financially depleted daw. Hahaha! Ever since he met me, he never tasted his payday bonuses and incentives. t's with me na daw. Like his first November month with me, instead of buying new car, naibili nya ng engagement ring! Hahaha! Kawawa naman...

But, I would always say..."well, at least I got one month lang each year, and you still got 11 months to enjoy and save for me again!" Hahaha!

So, thank you and goodbye November 2007... looking forward seeing you again next year! :)

Gifts for Christmas 2 : Toys for Sam

I almost forgot this gift I bought for Sam few months back at Amazon.Com

This is intended as a birthday gift to Sam but unfortunately, the shipment box was still in transit on time of her birthday.

Anyway, after seeing Sam's positive likeness on Little Touch LeapPad two years ago... I got her the next stage LeapFrog, My First LeapPad Educational Toy.

Also, I've added two LeapPad Books: Dora the Explorer and Disney Princess to keep her busy.











I just hope Sammie will enjoy this as much as she enjoyed her Little Touch LeapPad. :)
It's gonna be a very merry Christmas to the little girl... can't wait to see her open the gifts! :)

Thursday, November 29, 2007

Gifts for Christmas: Toys for Sam

This Christmas, I am thinking of buying Dora the Explorer Three-Wheeled scooter bike for Sam. I saw this last week at Toys R Us Galleria Mall. Price really affordable :)



I am a little bit hesitant since I know it's quite dangerous giving her this scooter. But... after giving her Dora the Explorer bike last Christmas, I think she can handle this one. (she bikes now with great ease!)

Oh definitely the scooter will be bought together with protective gears like helmet, elbow and knee pads... but still, I am having second thoughts.

What do you think Mommy experts? Care to share your two cents?

Great finds ... 168 Mall and Divisoria Trip

Our Divisoria trip last Saturday went really well and shopping was a breeze. Roads were clear, less sidewalk vendors seen along Divisoria and the place was really, really...clean! Actually, surprisingly clean! This was really "kakaiba" ha!! I saw lots of policemen around the place thus made me conclude somebody "big shot" will be arriving at Divisoria. True enough. After politely asking some by-standers, I learned that Mayor Lim will be inspecting Divisoria that day! Hahaha! Kaya pala... After hearing this, I immediately took advantage of shopping comfortably and headed to my must-see destinations.

First stop, Larry's curtains at Recto Avenue. Since MIL adores how my curtain-maker transformed her living rom into an "elegant" sanctuary , she asked him to do additional set of curtains for her upcoming party. MIL got additional rust-colored shantung cloth (P80/yard) and bought grommet rings (P50/yd) to dress up her living room. Even got more excited and bought more cloths such as shantung gold, ivory and blue. Believe me, she's unstoppable! lol.

My tita who also went with us, bought yards and yards of cloth for her living room. In preparation for the holiday season, she bought striking red cloth (P55/yd) and glass curtain (P120/yd). Really nice and christmas-y!


While me, with no plans of buying anything from Larry's ... bought red and gold plaid glass curtain cloth (P180/yd) and shantung matte gold color to be used as table top cover. I was suddenly inspired to prepare "elegant" Christmas dinner for my highschool friends. (I'll be hosting dinner party this year kaya... wish me luck!)

After spending few hours at Larry's, we went to 168 Mall. Still the place was not crowded... no street vendors around. Makes you wonder if you were really in Divisoria. Hahaha! My goal was to look for low-priced pashmina shawls for MIL's party. ( You see, I volunteered to take care of her give-aways!)


After asking from one store to another (and buying lots of hair clips for Sam) finally I found the lowest-priced shawl! I got the pashmina shawl at P58/ea. Grabe... I have to haggle from one store to another ha..from as high as P120 each to P70 ... until finally, somebody agreed (well almost and close enough) to my asking price of P50! I immediately bought 60 pieces of red, white and black shawls for my MIL. Then bought additional colored pashminas for Sam and Ico's teachers as Christmas gifts. Tipid and nice gift noh! Truly happy I completed this purchase! :)

After lunch, I still did some shopping around and found one great stall that sells really nice and affordable blouses. I love their blouse-style... it's like Dorothy Perkins or Chocolate brand-type styles. Nice prints, really classy and as if di galing Divisoria! Best of all, price very affordable at P300 each. Galing, galing! Ecstatic and excited with this great shop, I ended up buying 7 blouses ha!

Posting my great blouse finds at 168 Mall...




After the 168 trip, went to side streets and bought fruits for Mike such as seedless grapes (P120/kl) , ponkan at P10/ea (so sweet!), pears at P5/ea. and melon (P30/ea). Dami din hot castanas available at P120/kl (ata!). Thankful that Mike's tito went with us during the trip because he acts as our "runner". Everytime we buy heavy items, he will immediately bring our shopping bags to the van. Makes it easy shopping for us! :)

Last stop, the veggies place. As always, bought kilos of onions, tomatoes, garlic and potatoes as our staples. We were not able to buy other leafy veggies since no delivery that time. Could that be because of Mayor Lim's visit? lol.

So my dear mommy bloggers if you plan to visit Divisoria... just few reminders:

  • Don't wear jewelry ha! I saw from the news patrol the other night one shopper was crying in pain since her earrings were ripped from her ears! Really ouch and scary!
  • Haggle..haggle..haggle..haggle! move around. dami stores selling same items din.
  • Buy in quantities. cheaper if you buy in 6's or dozens.
  • Really helpful if you bring relatives or friends with you. Makes shopping easier. They can help you bring your stuff to your car or help carry your shopping bags.
  • Please..don't bring your kids! Kawawa kids especially dami tao!
  • Be alert always!
Hope was able to help.... HAPPY BARGAIN SHOPPING!

Tuesday, November 27, 2007

Craving for Razon's halo halo

While bloghopping around 7pm, I saw Vina's post on Razon's halo-halo.

Suddenly, I missed Razon's... I craved for their halo halo!!

I called hubby immediately and begged him to buy halo-halo before going home...

And so he did...

At exactly 9:06pm, hubby arrived with my halo-halo!! Yummy!! yummy!! bait bait ni Mike! Love talaga kita!! lol.

By 9:25pm, ubos ko na!!! (Bakit mabilis maubos pag take-out halo halo?!)

And now, it's 9:44pm ... I am posting the pictures na here in my blog. hahaha! almost real time ba?! lol.


Sammie here slowly scooping her halo halo... and yes, we allow her to eat inside our bedroom! I am one bad momma! lol.

Star Blogger Award and thoughts on blogging...

I was so touched when Melisse gave me this award... Thanks girl! Thank you for recognizing my blogging efforts ha despite knowing I lead a very busy corporate life. :)

I am really trying to keep up with blogging and if possible, do paid opps like other SAHM's. But I guess I cannot do all of these things at this time. You see, my work is really demanding! I work in a service-provider company that requires my complete attention on servicing client's needs. I must ensure they are happy and satisfied with our service. Hence, if you notice, most of my blog posts done during night time, weekends or holidays. Because this is my "free time" whenever I am at home. As much as possible, I try to be "present" with my family before I do any extra-activties on the net. :)


I love, love blogging... I love it so much since this my outlet or link to my web-friends out there. With blogging, I gain new friends. I learn new things. And most of the time, I can relate to blogging kwentos shared by other mommy bloggers . I enjoy reading every post especially if its all about family, raising children or just simply venting out daily experience of a Mom.

Believe me, I love reading personal blogging kwentos than paid opps! :) Don't get me wrong ha...I don't have anything against paid opps post. (hehehe! aside from di ako marunong mag-paid opps!) But I enjoy reading posts if its all about you and your family. This way, I get to know more about you, your life as a wife and Mom! :)


Suprsingly, I've read some sentiments of other mommy bloggers who can't keep up with blogging and family. Financial rewards may be very lucrative..and boy, I was really tempted to join the hungry wolves bandwagon! But after reading some realizations and insights lately...I guess paid blogging really not meant for me. I work full-time in the corporate world and raising my family is my priority too! This is my chosen career. And I cannot serve two masters at the same time, huh?!

Thus, I am passing the star blogger award to all the Mommy bloggers who can deal with corporate career, family life and paid blogging! (Aggie, Abie,Apols, Annette, Apple and Nice) Truly deserving to get this award... hat's off to you, girls!

Saturday, November 24, 2007

Samantha : the school girl

Since I am a working mom, I usually don't see Samantha prepare for school.

I always ask yaya to take pictures of her so hubby and I can see her daily activities. Then every night, as our bonding moments, we view the pictures together and ask Sam to talk about her day or anything about the picture.

Posting here some school pictures of Samantha...


Samantha with her pink ballet outfit ... pretty in pink noh!
(love your own talaga! hihihi!)





















Sammie in her school uniform ... she walks to school everyday! (oh darn! forgot to get her black shoes again.. and her unifrom too big pa!)



Finally... got my watchwinder!

I saw the need of getting a watch winder when my automatic watch stopped for an unknown reason. Despite winding the crown several times, my watch won't start. Aaargghh... this is my favorite watch! (oh, and the priciest too!) so I was desperate and truly sad when my favorite time piece suddenly stopped!

I brought my watch immediately to its authorized service center and I was really surprised with the repair and maintenance full service fee. Grabe! with the repair price of P10.8K, I can buy another watch pa! Anyway, since the warranty period already expired, I have no choice but to pay for the cost of parts and maintenance.

So I promised myself to keep my watch fully-conditioned at all times, I need to get a watch winder to ensure no more winding of crown. Overwinding of crown sometimes result in mechanical malfunction. And since automatic watches are designed to be in constant motion, leving it unused for several days or weeks (got habit of changing watch depending on my mood! hehehe!) will definitely affect its accuracy performance. Hence, the neccessity to get this winder mechanism...to "excercise" my watch when not worn.

Since last year, I've been planning to get watch winder. I've been looking for an affordable piece from HK and SNG but the price quite steep. Pricier compared to watchwinders available at Chronos and Washington shops here in Manila.

Until finally..I received the watch winder last week as an early Christmas gift! Woohoohoo! Really, really happy when I got it. Thanks so much, Beng! I owe you one!






Now, I plan to get another piece for my husband's automatic watch as a Christmas gift. I was told by my friend it is still on sale (at 30% off) at Chronos outlets. Hahaha!



So mommy bloggers, you might want to consider this as a Christmas gift to your hubby, dad and FIL. It is very practical and useful gift especially if they own automatic watch. Or if they love to collect watches (like me!) better to store it on this mechanical piece. Grab the sale chance too! Believe me, it will save you from spending money for repair and maintenance. After all, expensive time pieces really need extra care to keep it's optimum performance. :)

5 Things Tag

Got tagged by Kitty.

5 things found in my bag
1. wallet
2. mobile phone
3. BAYAN wireless landline phone
4. check book
5. kikay kit

5 things found in my wallet
1. ATM cards
2. credit cards
3. driver's license
4. family and sam's picture
5. receipts (lots!)

5 things found in my/our room
1. bed
2. tv
3. sammie's toys : despite having her own room, she'll always leave her toys around! haay!
4. bed side lamp shades
5. magazines, magazines!

5 things I've always wanted to do
1. travel , travel, and travel to Europe
2. learn how to bake really yummy goodies
3. learn photography
4. learn ballet -- malabo na ito, dear. hahaha!
5. fix and organize our family albums!

5 things I'm currently into:
1. blogging
2. working
3. preparing for MILs party
4. surfing the net (for on line shopping!)
5. doing my christmas decors

5 people to tag for this meme
1. Annette
2. Apols
3. Anna
4. Abie
5. Aggie

Thursday, November 22, 2007

Samantha's Art Class_ Ballet

Mommy is so excited! Tomorrow will be Sam's first ever ballet class!

As part of their usual Friday arts and crafts activity, ballet will be taught to students. Great activity, huh?!? How come I don't have this kind of fun activity when I was young? lol.

Anyway, Teacher Wendy told me last week to get Sam ballet outfits that she can use for class. She told me to get her pink thights, leotards and dancing shoes. While she's talking my mind was already blinking with shopping signals!! Hahaha! You mean I'll do some shopping for Sam?!?! Woohoohoho!

Oh my.. I got so excited last weekend and I shopped for two sets of ballet outfits for Sam! I bought not only pink..but got black set from Yvonne's at SM Makati. Hahaha..ultimate pasaway ba ang Mommy?! Well, I was thinking black and pink combination would be nice. Wala lang...to break the monotonous pink outfit! Hahaha! How about tutus? I love the tutus! I want to get one but hubby stopped me and called me OA na! Hahaha!

Just to share...If ever there was one frustration I had during my childhood years, It was not being able to learn ballet. I was so envious with my classmates who were enrolled in a ballet class. They looked so pretty, so girly and so poised! Hahaha! How I wish my parents had money to send me to ballet school...oh well! :)

Anyway, will post Sam's picture tomorrow. Will ask yaya to take her pictures kasi Mommy will be at work. :(

Wednesday, November 21, 2007

I am Sponge Bob Square Pants!


I got this cute tag from Jody.

Everyone has a personality of a cartoon character. Have you ever asked yourself what cartoon character do you most resemble? A group of investigators got together and analyzed the personalities of well known and modern cartoon characters. The information that was gathered was made into this test.

Answer all the questions (only 10) with what describes you best, add up all your Points (which are next to the answer that you choose) at the end and look for your results. Do not cheat by looking at the end of this post before you are done. Then ask your Friends to answer it. (Make sure to Highlight your answers)

1. Which one of the following describes the perfect date?
a) Candlelight dinner (4 pts.)
b) Fun/Theme Park (2 pts.)
c) Painting in the park (5 pts)
d) Rock concert (1 pt.)
e) Going to the movies (3 pts.)

2. What is your favorite type of music?
a) Rock and Roll (2 pts.)
b) Alternative (1 pt.)
c) Soft Rock (4 pts.)
d) Country (5 pts.)
e) Pop (3 pts.)

3. What type of movies do you prefer?
a) Comedy (2 pts.)
b) Horror (1 pt.)
c) Musical (3 pts.)
d) Romance (4 pts.)
e) Documentary (5 pts.)

4. Which one of these occupations would you choose if you only could choose one of these?
a) Waiter (4 pts.)
b) Professional Sports Player (5 pts.)
c) Teacher (3 pts.)
d) Police (2 pts.)
e) Cashier (1 pt)

5 . What do you do with your spare time?
a) Exercise (5 pts.)
b) Read (4 pts.)
c) Watch television (2 pts.)
d) Listen to music (1 pt.)
e) Sleep (3 pts.)

6. Which one of the following colors do you like best?
a) Yellow (1 pt.)
b) White (5 pts.)
c) Sky Blue (3 pts.)
d) Dark Blue (2 pts.)
e) Red (4 pts.)

7. What do you prefer to eat?
a) Snow (3 pts.)
b) Pizza (2 pts.)
c) Sushi (1 pt.)
d) Pasta (4 pts.)
e) Salad (5 pts.)

8 What is your favorite holiday?
a) Halloween (1 pt.)
b) Christmas (3 pts.)
c) New Year (2 pts.)
d) Valentine's Day (4 pts.)
e) Thanksgiving (5 pts.)

9. If you could go to one of these places which one would it be?
a) Paris (4 pts)
b) Spain (5 pts)
c) Las Vegas (1 pt)
d) Hawaii (4 pts)
e) Hollywood (3 pts)

10. With which of the following would you prefer to spend time with?
a) Someone Smart (5 pts.)
b) Someone attractive (2 pts.)
c) Someone who likes to Party (1 pt.)
d) Someone who always has fun (3 pts.)
e) Someone very sentimental (4 pts.)

Now add up your points and find out the answer you have been waiting for!Put your character in the subject line and forward to your friends and back to the person that sent this to you. Very interesting to see 'who' your friends are!

(10-16 points) You are Garfield : You are very comfortable, easy going, and you definitely know how to have fun but sometimes you take it to an extreme. You always know what you are doing and you are always in control of your life. Others may not see things as you do, but that doesn't mean that you always have to do what is right. Try to remember, your happy spirit may hurt you or others.

(17-23 points) You are Snoopy:You are fun, you are very cool and popular. You always know what's i nand you are never are out of style You are good at knowing how to satisfy everyone else. You have probably disappeared for a few days more than once but you always come home with the family values that you learned Being married and having children are important to you, but only after you have had your share of fun times

(24-28 points) You are Elmo:You have lots of friends and you are also popular, always willing togive advice and help out a person in need. You are very optimistic andyou always see the bright side of things. Some good advice: try not to be too much of a dreamer. Dreaming too big could cause many conflicts in your life.

(29-35 points) You are Sponge Bob Square Pants:You are the classic person that everyone loves. You are the best friend that anyone could ever have and never wants to lose. You never cause harm to anyone and they would never not understand your feelings. Life is a journey, it's funny and calm for the most part. Stay away from traitors and jealous people, and you will be stress free.

(36-43 points) You are Charlie Brown: You are tender, you fall in love quickly but you are also very serious about all relationships. You are a family person. You call your Mom every Sunday. You have many friends and may occasionally forget a few Birthdays. Don't let your passion confuse you with reality.

(44-50 points) You are Dexter:You are smart and definitely a thinker... Every situation is frontedwith a plan. You have a brilliant mind. You demonstrate very strong family principles. You maintain a stable routine but never ignore a bad situation when it comes. Try to do less over thinking every once in a while to spice things up a bit with spontaneity

Passing the cartoon character tag to Kitty and Melisse! Enjoy, girls! :)

Oh my...awesome awards!!

Aaaawwwww......thanks Abie for this award... really made my day extra special! :)


O di ba, sexy and beautiful daw! :) Wohoohooo!! ooppsss..walang mag-reklamo ha!?! hehehe!

Anyway, I truly believe each Mommy blogger here really sexy and beautiful in our own right!


Passing this wondeful awards to other Mommies: Vina, Yen and Yvetchie.

Monday, November 19, 2007

Barney...Live in Manila!

Here we come, Barney!

Since I have had toxic and uber busy week, I was able to get the Barney show tickets last Friday only. Hehehe!
Boy, I tried getting the tickets weeks before but I was preoccupied with too much work (and activities) that it eventually slipped my mind. My bad.

Finally, I was able to buy the tickets for Dec 22, 3pm show! We will be seated PT103 Row H Seat No. 19-21 . Few rows back from Mommy bloggers, Peachy and Kelly. Yeheey, I’ll get to see you guys again! :)

So Barney, BJ and Baby Bop... see you!

Sunday, November 18, 2007

Blog Tag Marathon 5 : Things I can't let go...

Tag 5 : What are the three things that I can't let go?

  • Cellphone – Since I am in communication service industry, I need to be reached 24/7 by my colleagues and clients.

  • Laptop – My equipment tool for work. Without this, I am no longer productive! Hahaha!

  • Wallet – Gawd! I can’t imagine what my life be if I lost my wallet! This is my life! My atm, credit cards, driver’s license all in here.

Thanks Annette for this tag. Had fun doing this!

Blog Tag Marathon 4 : Friendship Award

Tag 4: Friendship Award

This award was given mostly by Mommy bloggers who I met last Sunday.



Thank you Mich, Jody, Peachy and Abie. Looking forward to our next EB-chikahan! :)




Sharing this Friendship award to other Mommy bloggers I would love to meet in person: Kathy, Nice, Erika, Jen, Anna and Jade.

Blog Tag Marathon 3 : How did motherhood changed you?

I was tagged by Nice of momma stuff. Sorry Nice, took me forever to answer this. :)



Blog Tag 3 : How has motherhood changed me?

1. I appreciate life more than ever. I used to be happy go-lucky type of person but when I became a Mom, I became more responsible in my actions.

2. I learned to prioritize. Especially sacrificing my wants (short, luho!) vs what we need. Now, I mostly do sensible buying.

3. I became financially wise and learned to save for rainy days!

4. I became fat. Yes, from a 95 lbs to 120+ body weight! From a 23 in waistline to 30+ waistline.

5. Family comes first! No compromise. Mike, Ico and Sam before myself or other people.

Saturday, November 17, 2007

Blog Tag Marathon 2 : Favorite Comfort Food

Thanks Vina for this tag! Loved doing this! :) I'll cheat on this one..madami kasi ako comfort food! Takaw ako eh, hahaha!

Whenever I feel happy, depressed or I just need to feel good…my comfort food would always be CHOCOLATES! :) I indulge myself to guilt-free eating of M&Ms plain, Chips Ahoy Chunky, Hershey’s, Cadbury Fruit and Nut, Meiji Almonds and Meiji Macademia nuts. Hahaha!







Aside from Chocolates, my default foodie is PUREFOODS TENDER JUICY HOTDOG! (no other brands please!) Yum, yum, yum… I love this cooked toast-fried with my Del Monte Banana Catsup! I can finish eating hotdogs more than ¼ kilo in one seating while watching DVD!! Pig out talaga! lol. Sam is also hooked with this junk food….. and yes, I am one bad momma for teaching her this simple indulgence! :)


So.. care to share your favorite comfort food, Jen, Jody, Jane, Jesse and Joyce.

Blog Tag Marathon 1 : The Brand Tag

Tag 1: The Brand Tag

I got this tag from Jody and Jane. Thanks for the tag, truly enjoyed it! Makes me realize I’ve indulged myself too much!Hahaha!

1. What’s the brand of your wristwatch? Guess, Swatch, Anne Klein, Tag Heuer, Technomarine, Gucci and Omega.

2. What’s the brand of your bracelet? None. Mostly white gold lang.

3. What’s the brand of your cell phone? Nokia.

4. What’s the brand of your computer? IBM (company issued) and Compaq (personal).

5. What’s the brand of your bags? Got mix of cheap and not-so cheap bags… From tiangge collections to branded ones like Ralph Lauren, Guess, Esprit, Nine West, UCB, Lacoste, Charles and Keith, Louis Vuitton, Coach.

6. What’s the brand of your undies? Wacoal, Triumph, Marks and Spencer, Victoria Secret and Gap.

7. What’s the brand of your flip-flops? Havaianas , Old Navy, RL and some cutie flip flops from tiangge. :)

8. What’s the brand of your shoes? Lacoste, Naturalizer, Bass, CMG, Nine West, Esprit, and lately, mostly Charles and Keith.

9. What’s the brand of your wallet? Bass, Lacoste, Ralph Lauren, Esprit, Liz Clairborne and Louis Vuitton.

10. What’s the brand of your shirts? From tiangges madami. I have Lacoste (suki!), Old Navy, Esprit, Giordano, Mango, Bossini and Gap shirts.

11. What’s the brand of your TV? Sony and Philips.

12. What’s the brand of your cars? Honda, Toyota and Mitsubishi Galant (rarely used na..mahal gas nito eh! lol.

13. What’s the brand of your mp3 player? Sorry, I don’t have one.

14. What’s the brand of your make up? Clinique, Maybelline, MAC and Body Shop.

15. What’s the brand of your shampoo and conditioner? Pantene Hair-fall Control shampoo and conditioner.

16. What’s the brand of your jeans? Got lots of jeans from tiangges like Chilly Papa. Got branded jeans like Esprit, Chocolate, MNG jeans, Diesel, Old Navy and Armani.

17. What’s the brand of your laundry soap? Pride powder for washing machine use and Tide Bar.

18. What's your brand of lotion? Vaseline lotion and Victoria Secret.

19. What's the brand of your toothpaste? Colgate

20. What's the brand of your ballpen? It varies... got parker and pilot. But mostly, I use company sign pens na give aways! Hahaha!

Thursday, November 15, 2007

Busy But Happy Week ...and our Red Party Celebration

It’s been a very busy week for me here at work. Busy but definitely, very rewarding week! In fact, it is one of my favorite weeks ever for 2007.

Why favorite?!? Received lots of moolah this week! I am so rich! Hahaha! As if madami noh! :)

Just to share some of my week highlights…

November 12, Monday :

Business Consultation Seminar with one of our big ISP client. After hours of service discussions, we ended up having dinner and drinks at Friday’s Timog. Yummy!! Went home super full that night. Haaay, no wonder I gained weight fast noh! :)

November 13, Tuesday :

Got call from hubby that he will be sent to Hawaii early January to attend Pacific Telecommunications Council. Woohoohooo! Sasama ako! I’ll force him to bring me talaga…and if di pwede, I’ll force him to buy me LV bag!! I found out that he will be staying at Hilton Hawaiian Village. I did my research on the internet and found out may LV store doon! Hahaha! Mamili sya.. he’ll bring me or he’ll buy me bags and shoes! Hahaha! (Hello, Speedy 30..lapit na tayo magkita or Hawaii..here I come! hahaha!)

The good news pa…our September sales incentive was credited to my ATM that evening! Woohoohoo! Moolaah! Moolaah!

November 14, Wednesday:

Went to Coregidor Day Tour with one of my top clients, AT&T. My very first trip to Coregidor and I really enjoyed the tour. Went to historic place of Malinta tunnel and learned more on WW II Japanese-American liberation. I never thought I’ll enjoy this trip. Mommy bloggers, do check this out. Highly recommended if you want to learn something about our courageous war history. And of course, quick escape from Manila’s busy life!

After the tiring day, went to The Spa, Jupiter. Ultimate relaxation and pampering of self! Really love sauna and massage. My de-stressing activity! :)


Dinner followed at Prince of Jaipur at Fort Strip. Grabe ha, ang mahal dito! Hahaha! I am not a fan of Indian food talaga, di ako nag-enjoy!

Another good news… mid-month salary was credited to our payroll ATM. Woohohoo! More moolah, moolah, moolah pa!!

November 15, Thursday :


Bayan Red Party Celebration! Grand celebration for meeting our desired number of Bayan Wireless Subscribers (BWL)! Company effort talaga! Ang galing mo, Bayan! Really felt proud and happy that I am part of this momentous event.

And the great news… our half 13th month and 14th month bonus also credited to our ATM that evening! Wooohoohoo! Dami, dami mooolaah talaga!!

And for achieving our BWL target, we were even given additional half month bonus pa TAX FREE!! Woohooohoo!! Moolaah, moolaah again!! Weeeee! Ang yaman namin! Hahaha! :)

November 16, Friday:


After drinking party last night, the company gave us half day off from work pa! Yeheey! I was able to spend additional sleeping and cuddling hours with Sam. I miss this so much!! Then I brought her to school, had little chit chat with Teacher Wendy. Sam's doing well with school. I was told she interacts well with her classmates and very attentive to teacher's instructions. I also found out that she needs ballet outfilt for their arts activity. Hmmmm...Saturday, shopping time for Sammie!

** jody, ay...wala pala kami bonus!! wala!wala! wala! hahahaha!


Just to share... here are some of our Red Party Celebration pictures...

Ang galing mo, Bayan!

Bayan Business... drink 'til you drop!


Hala...Let's celebrate pa! Di naman mukha na talaga kami lasing noh!



Wala lang...Nag trip lang mga ito! Wait, may bonus pa ba dyan sa taas?!?

The Bayan Business Sales Team: pretty in RED!

Mike, Beng, Colleen, Michelle, Jacqui and Jovy

tired from non-stop dancing and drunk from vodka...but still RED-y to party!

Mommy Bloggers EB Christmas Party

Everybody had a great time last Sunday. It was our first ever bloggers EB but surprisingly, you can feel the connection and bonding of mommies right away. Could it be because we've known so many things about each other through our blog posts and kwentos kaya no need for further introductions na?! Hahaha!

Anyway, here are some of our party pictures taken from my old point-and-shoot digicam.

Mommy Thea, Sam and Me

Mommy Apple, Austin, Sam and Me

Kids enjoying the coin shower... No rush talaga sila! Hahaha!



Mommy Jane with Sophia, Me and Sam, Mommy Agie with Martha

Kami ulit ...but this time, with Mommy Peachy and Mommy Joy




On to my Mommy blogger impressions...

The first Mommy blogger I saw is Aggie, think she's as jolly and ma-kwento like me. Aggie was all smile during the party too kaya I can feel that she got lots of mommy kwentos to share. I added Aggie on my list of blog rolls since I want to know more about her. Si Aggie lang yata wala ako link! :( Super cool also her son, Matthew. He participated during the game kahit little tots kasama, ok lang with him. Love Martha too..who would forget Martha walking around with chicken drumstick on her hand. Hahaha! Aliw talaga!

Then I saw Apols, who by the way was really totally different Apol character from her post. Hahaha! I had this imppression before that she's mataray and quite suplada...but on the contrary, she's so gentle and very soft-spoken. Hahaha! Thank you for organzing the party girl, you really made it happen for us. :)

Thea was seated near us, very friendly and I think quite shy too. Perhaps since she was kinda "new" to the group, she prefers to observe the brouhaha around her. I was so bilib with her since she came to the party wearing dress. Very girly ha..and no, you don't look preggy! Never thought of that! Dear, mas mukha pa ako preggy sa iyo believe me! Hahaha!

Jody arrived together with Dicky and the kids, Margaux and Bianca. Since Dicky and I are officemates, we get to see each other almost every quarter na ata. Be it during birthdays, company outings, simple office get-together and kahit sa LV shop! :) Madalas text mate pa kami ng mga "secret" buys and bonuses. Hahaha! I asked Dicky nga buti he was able to join the Mommy bloggers party, syempre nakakatuwa sagot nya... "ano magagawa ko, eh under ako!" hahaha! Di under yun noh, super love talaga ni Dicky si Jody. Bow ako! :)

Then I approaced Abie and Peachy at the play area. Grabe, parang di Mommies mga ito. So slim! Kainggit ha! :) Super nice kausap si Peachy. Very soft spoken and parang prim and proper lagi. I agree with other Mommy bloggers, talaga naman well-coordinated outfit ni Mommy Peachy! Hahaha! You realy looked good wearing black and white. Wish I could wear this one too! Abie so young-looking naman. You cut your hair short pala..kasi from your blog pictures, long hair ka pa :) I totally agree with other Mommies na para kayo magka-barkada ni Howell. Young couple talaga! Aliw si Howell ha, very game and kalog. Hahaha! Thanks Daddy Howell for making the team win with your booty-shaking! Got McDo prize for Sam! :)

Then I saw Mommy Joy. Really pretty and slim. Nice bangs! High-schooler ang dating! hahaha!Very accomodating and ma-kwento also like me. Pero sya yun gentler and soft spoken version ko ha! I love reading her blog post about her daughter Sandy. Sandy so girly too like you Mommy Joy! Very dainty! (Jane's apt description of Sandy) Siya din yun softer side ng Sam ko! Hahaha! I can still remember when Sandy and Sam was left at the gaming area gathering coins. Syempre no rush sila to pick up the coins, parang wala lang..simple task they need to complete lang. Really love the innocence of kids!

One of the Mommies I look forward meeting in person was Mommy Mich. She's very friendly and always make sure she leaves nice comments in my blog. I know she's one pretty Mom too and I can feel her warmth and kindness. Aliw din si Alex..so, taba ching-ching! Ka-gigil! Hahaha!

I love reading Jane's blog post kaya I also look forward meeting her in person. Though I met her before at the Sesame Street Show, but that was simple hi and hello lang. No time for long chit-chat. Based on her posts, I am sure magkaka-sundo kami nito. We've got lots of things in common! And like her first impressions on me, I think kaya namin chika-marathon for hours din with any topic under the sun. Hahaha! Btw, her daughter Sophie really big talaga ha. Very pretty and taba-ching, grabe really "pata-tim girl"! Mommy Jane, ang diet ni Sophie...para pwede pang Miss Universe! Hahaha!

And of course, Kelly. Our best dressed, well-poised Mom! I really admire Kelly's commitment to join the party kahit wala si Manu. Sayang, you were not able to join some games. Ok lang yun, may next time pa naman. Hahaha! Dear, loved your blouse ha! I think I'll look much slimmer pa if I'll wear that too! (kapal no!)

Last Mommy who arrived, Apple. Straight from her party raket! I know Apple before pa since she's one of my suppliers for Sam's party. Very nice and simple Mommy. She's very accomodating and friendly too. Glad naka-habol pa si Apple. Sayang, no chance to chit-chat with her pa. Kulang na sa time!:) Thank you for the key-chains ha.

Anyway, after reading most of the post-party blog kwentos, I am pretty sure there will be next EB schedule. Bitin kasi kwentuhan and bentahan! Hahaha! Really girls, I look forward seeing you again. Had great time and enjoyed meeting you all! Hope we can all meet up again and share your blogging business secrets! Hahaha!

And for those Mommies who said I am "slim" pala in person, grabe... you really made me smile and feel good! Hahaha! Thank you for the kind words and compliments. Promise, will try to be "slimmer" next EB natin! Wish me luck, Hahaha!

Saturday, November 10, 2007

Gifts, gifts lots of gifts…



I was really happy that some family and friends heeded my request for clothes for Sam. I prefer to get something practical for Sam particularly clothes that she can wear everyday for school. I am not complaining though, but I feel that Sam got lots of toys inside her cabinets, some still unused and unopened while others were played with just once.

Hence, few days before her birthday I sent text messages to my family and close friends with a message: should you wish to give something to Sam, wish lists are as follows: size 6 clothes from gingersnaps or the likes ; XL Huggies pull-up diapers ; Enfagrow 4. Very practical Mom, huh! But mind you… I only sent this message to my really close friends, ninangs and family members! Hehehe!

Opening of gifts… baby organ from Lolo and Lola.




Aside from the baby organ, this keeps her busy now… kitchen set from Mommy and Daddy! I bought this gift two months ago at Rustan’s. I just placed the wrapped box inside her room and she never did touch the gift. Hahaha! Surprisingly, she was never curious with the big box inside her room. If it was me, I’ll definitely take a peek and be so excited about it especially big gift coming from Rustan’s pa! Wala ako EQ talaga! lol.

Got this kitchen set idea from Joy. I saw how Sandy was so engrossed playing with it and it seems really cool gift idea. I promised myself to give it also for Sam’s birthday. Now, she enjoys make-believe cooking and washing of plates with her mini-kitchen. Hahaha!




Barney: Let's Imagine Tour in Manila

I saw this post from Peachy and got so excited about it.

Finally… Barney will be here in Manila (again!)

Sam will definitely enjoy the show especially after watching Sesame Street Live last July. Bet she’ll enjoy this so much more! This is her first love...her first play character, her first DVD collection (besides Baby Einstein), and until now, she just won’t stop watching their show!

I am sure all the Mommy bloggers out there are excited as much as I am. Hahaha! I might be getting December 22nd or 23rd 3pm show. But before getting the tickets, need to check out hubby's sked as always! :)

So c’mon, everybody let’s go...let’s enjoy the show! - - line ni Barney talaga ah!lol.


Monday, November 5, 2007

Happy 3rd Birthday Samantha!

And the day came and went ...

After 5 months of preparation and budgeting, Sam's party was celebrated with a resounding success.

My prayers were answered and my egg offering at Sta. Clara worked! It didn't rain the entire day & truly felt happy and blessed. Really, really happy that all my party plans materialized without a hitch. Well, almost! Hahaha! Nothing is perfect. But hey, all the imperfections made it more even fantastic. :)


Thank you to all my party suppliers who made Sam's 3rd Birthday really special.

Invites, Name and Thank you tags : ADWORKS

Adworks never failed me when it comes to invites design, printing and delivery. Their price quite affordable too especially for name and thank you tags. I always recommend Adworks to my family and friends & truly happy and satisfied with them.








Balloons and Decors: YAN-PLE PARTY SHOP

Very accommodating, prompt and friendly Apple. Since Apple knew I had limited budget (and space) for decors, she gladly helped me transform my car garage to a very nice party place.

Her coconut trees pillar perfectly fit the Hawaiian theme, although some commented that it looked more like grapes than a tree. Well I guess because the balloons used were colored purple. How many times do you see brown balloons nga naman & hahaha!

Loved her 2D Lilo and Stitch themed piata. Nicely done. My niece loved the pinata so much that she asked Sam s pinata for her upcoming birthday this December.

Balloon burst was also a big hit to kids, as always! Though when I am about to pop the balloon, that is the only time we realized that Apple s crew forgot to give me the balloon stick to burst the balloon. Hehehe! I was able to grab the next best thing na lang from the gift table. Think it was the stick from one of the caterer's decors. Hahaha!





Tarpaulin Design: MELISSE BAYLOSIS (N@W) and Tarpaulin Printing: SIGNEX PRINTING (c/o Bayan supplier)

I am always "suki" of Melisse for tarp design. Her rates very affordable and she's really nice and friendly. Very prompt with my queries and service delivery.

For the tarp printing, what can I say... got good price per sq ft. Thanks to our office supplier. I was able to avail the Corporate rate. Hehehe!



Catering Services: TODDLERS UNLIMITED by JOSIAH'S CATERING






Truly happy with Josiah's. Trusted catering services ever since I got married. Tita Jett is very accommodating as well as her AE Joanne.

Food was yummy especially food for the kids; loved their ever famous baked spaghetti! The kiddie food was extended to adults as well. Despite reserving 30 pax kiddie food..they were able to extend the food to adults too! Galing noh! :) I was told that the Mongolian buffet was yummy too (though, never get the chance to taste it myself), but I got little disappointed with the long line at the buffet station. Plus, cooking time was quite long. I should have asked for bigger stove to accommodate more on- the-spot cooking. Also, I was surprised with the very small Mongolian bowl used. I didn't expect the bowl to be used to be really, really small (imagine the soup bowl in Chinese restaurants & that's the size used!) I did not expect they'll provide the big bowls...but at least, twice-sized standard soup bowl would have been better. Hence, guests need to line up for second or third servings. Good thing the guests are ma-diskarte ... they'll prepare at least two bowls each. Sadly, the AE did not inform me that serving size will be like this. Otherwise, I should have ordered more adult food. Joan (AE) is fully aware that I only have Mongolian food for the adults. She should have at least warned that servings will be made on small bowls so that I could have assess if I need to add more food items. Good thing the Mongolian food tastes so yummy! Moreover, quality and taste were not compromised! Guests loved it!

Sadly I forgot to consider this during the post party evaluation. The head waiter asked me to sign evaluation form..syempre, sa pagod and post party blues I forgot to put this on my comment. Hehehe! But I immediately texted Joan and Tita Jett the next day for my comments.


Set up was superb,linens used were clean, even the flatwares and glasses. Although I specifically asked for baby pineapples for table centerpiece, this did not happen due to unavailability of pineapples (out of season). They instead replaced it with twigs and scattered sea shells to make it a little Hawaiian-themed. Not bad! over all effect was nice.

Josiah's staff are always efficient, courteous, accommodating and very friendly. Even if they are tired they were still happy to assist guests.

Overall, I am very happy with Josiah's. Glad I got them for Sam's party. Highly recommended.

Food Carts and Inflatables : JELLY BELLIES

I always preferred the services of Jelly Bellies. Even though a little pricey, I still prefer to get them. I know I can count on Angelette as always. She's very nice helpful, really prompt and very accommodating to all my requests.

I tried to seek Little Royalties (c/o Pizzie) services few months back but got so disappointed with her lack of interest to my party queries. Then I decided to switch back to JB. Someone I trusted and really dependable. Again, another highly recommended supplier!

Food carts arrived early and they were able to set up on time. Some came as early as 230 pm together with the mini castle inflatables :) Food carts availed from JB : Big Chill, Buy the Bucket and Arce Dairy Ice cream. Real winner and hit to all my guests!







Sam enjoyed the mini castle inflatables. As a matter of fact, she stayed most of the time inside the bouncer than entertaining her guest. Hahaha! Glad I chose to get this instead of the Bubble Show & Sam enjoyed it so much until 730pm! Sulit. :)



Cupcakes and Cakes : QUINTBELLES BY ELAINE SHIH
I was looking for affordable cake supplier months before Sam's party. Since I am on a budget, was thinking of getting all cupcakes this time. Luckily, was able to know Elaine Shih from Jody's party. Her cupcakes really affordable and yummy! Loved her moist chocolate cake too! Sulit talaga! Btw, thanks Tito Willy for the cake gift.




Cookie Lollies: LAYERS AND LAYERS BY ARLENE

Last minute addition, cookie lollies from Layers and Layers. I was not able to taste the cookie lollies (again!) but I was told by my niece it was ok naman daw& tastes like cookie! Hahaha!

Anyway just wanted to add this as tokens sana for the older kids. But surprisingly, it was gone right after the candle blowing.

Party Host with balloon twisting entertainment: JHOANNE PARIS N@W

The ultimate last minute decision I did. Getting professional host was kinda pricey and I am thinking since it will be just a simple house party I don't need a party host. But I'm glad I've decided to get one. Well, it made my life easy during the party. Hahaha! Thankful to Joanne for accommodating my short notice request.
The balloon twisting also added some sort of entertainment to the kids. Kids enjoyed the simple balloon show prepared by Ate Shiela.

Give-aways, Loot Items and Toy Items: c/o TOY KINGDOM, DIVISORIA MALL and SM

Got the Stitch bag from TK last August. I bought 35 pcs that time thinking I'll have few invited kids only. When I came back last October to add more, I was disappointed that no more bags available :( So, I've decided to give priority to kids 7 and below for loot bags. :)



Game prizes: LILO AND STITCH DISNEY, HK

I know I won't be able to find Lilo and Stitch items here in Manila since I tried looking for these items as early as May. I was able to get these prize items from our previous Disney HK trip. Glad the kids enjoyed the prizes too!

Photo and Video: ICO, MIKE, ME and some family relatives

Due to limited budget, I've decided not to get professional services for photo and video. Since I have digicam and dvd videocam, I've decided to ask relatives to take pictures instead. My mistake, since I asked for favor services only, I can't impose them to take our pictures all the time. So bottomline, I missed good party shots! :( and most of the time, Ico and Mike was holding the video/camera, we missed getting family pictures.

Lesson learned: should have dedicated photographer during the party. If a relative will be assigned, should give proper instructions not to leave us. Hahaha! Better yet, pay na lang talaga for services para di maka-istorbo and families can enjoy the party too! :)


So that's it. Despite missing some items (like the party poppers!) everything went well as planned. Party was a huge success! It did not rain!! Thank God! Eggs offered at Sta. Clara worked! Hahaha!

Guests enjoyed the party, Samantha had a blast with the mini castle and we did have a great time with families and friends. We were more relaxed and happy this year compared to Sam's previous parties. I guess holding the party at the comfort of your home made a lot of difference.

Can't wait for another party planning next year! hahaha! Would you believe I am already thinking of celebrating Sam's 4th birthday party na?!?! OA noh! I was so inspired with Sam's pure delight on bouncers. Hence, I am considering of renting bigger inflatables next time with food carts available for kids! Few kids and neighbors invited para tipid lang! Hahaha!

Happy Birthday, my dear pretty Samantha! We love you so much! :)




For more party pictures, please check out
http://community.webshots.com/user/samgabrielle...to follow..pag completely uploaded na! :)

btw, sorry... i've edited this post more than 10 times for uniformity of fonts...but somehow, all the settings I used was not saved nor published... grrrr!! sorry... :)






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