Projects and kids

More often than not, you would find me working on activities with the Kiddos.  We are not the creative bunch, but we sure love to work with our hands and hearts. That's all what's important anyway--- and having fun while doing it.  I think aside from love of books and reading, we like painting--- especially KC and Josh.


Lemme share what we have done recently. This is sure not complete because you know me, I am a bad blogger. No peechurs? How bad can you be? I do need to buy a compact camera, one that I can always bring with me. So bear with me, AND Mr. Hubbs should be getting that damn (dumb?) camera soon!


A few weeks back,  I treated Josh, KC and Ice to Plaster Fun Time in Braintree. We used to go here a lot but you know, kids grow and focus on other things--- like those uber expensive-pesky-Nintendo games and what-not. But it was all good coming back again after so long. For those who would like to know more about his place, click on the link above but lemme explain the basics. You go in, and every wall is grouped such that,  for everything in that wall is a specific price. I think the cheapest one is $7.99 inclusive of paint and all the finishings ( glitters, gloss). They have an area where you go choose your colors and they are already portioned. You can get as much as you want. The brushes are there too and they have a variety of sizes. Anyways...peechurs... pick your plaster to paint. I suggest basic ones for beginners.

KC have these letter initials (KC) in her bedroom..

After making your choice, head on and pay. Or let Mama pay. As she always does.

 Then go crazy and paint away...



of course, we need to have nail polish, right?

 Here's our finished product. Lovely isn't it. The best thing is we got stories to tell. Like when one of the ladies who worked there ask if "maybe there was a special something" because Ice is wearing a tiara... like maybe a birthday... ummm... or just because."  Josh quickly replied, " just because, she just wears tiara all the time and she feels like a princess... yeah, just because." Surely you can buy these things, sometimes even cheaper, but nothing beats the bonding and the skills learned, skills? Yup, like being patient and wait for paint to dry or else, the horse will have a rainbow connection for a tail. Isn't patience a virtue? Yup, I know, but I call it skill too--- because it is LEARNED too.



Ice's pretty horse..er uhmm "mamu, it's a pony".



KC's bunny





Lest you forget, I have done , started a lot of projects too. But, again, bloggerfail! Bad blogger, no peechurs. But, here's one. If you come to my house, you would see I lurve glass hurricanes, those glass monsters are the easiest, most versatile for seasonal decors. You feel it up with your knick-knacks and presto! I filled them up this time with split peas, yup split peas for colorful and green decor---for Spring. I mixed green and yellow peas for better effect and added my pretty crosses for that  Holy Week touch.

This glass charms are meant for candle jars, but would look good with any glass decor

I found my glass charms (the letter L) at Christmas Tree Shop where they were less than a dollar---compared to Yankee Candle's version at -- brace yourselves---$6.99! Unbelievable.

Then, I made this...isn't it lovely?

For Chris' science week, he decided to present "How to make Halite Crystals". I will spare you the scientific jargon but here are the pics....

Basically, he wanted to see in what optimum temperature would table salt (halite) be produced. Needless to say, the higher the temp, the better and larger crystals were produced. Ahhh... the wonder of science. Ha!

I love making stuff and bonding with my kids. I encourage everyone to do the same thing. it's not the most sparkling clean house the kids would remember but the time spent and memories shared with them that would be most treasured. So, yeah, go ahead and get creative or just sit down with them and read a book or just indulge. You see, time flies. Soon, they won't be there anymore. I know we all get busy thinking we are all doing whatever we do for them, but when do we have that time then? When? I want my kids to remember the times we actually laughed together, snorted loud because of too much laughing, I want them to tell stories when we went to the beach one summer night just to stare at the sky, I prefer them to joke about the time I had my hair up playing "silly mommy" than being made up eating in fancy restaurants. Kids don't care if ypu made the fanciest cake, they remember when they made that "hard as stone" cookies. Yes, they do. But, what a great memory is it! Would you rather have that most delectable recipe most appreciated by all your friends than the dirty kitchen brought about by 3 little muchkins messing the whole shebang? I prefer the latter, yes please.

When you are ready to spend a wonderful time with your kids, call me and we can make sandcastles in the beach. May not be prizeworthy those sandcastles we make, but memory keepers they will be.

Good evening peeps.

What

 Today, I decided to ask myself WHAT questions, answerable by what I feel NOW.

1. What if you have $ 3 million?

I would not be writing blogs. I would be sipping champagne in the pink sands of Mauritius with Mr. Hubbs. And what with 3 million? What about 1 million?  Heck, I just need lifestyle money. I can provide my basic needs. But I take 3 million, yes please.

2. What is happiness to you?

Happiness is a hot bath. Without rushing. Without fear of kids running amok. Yeah. A hot bath uninterrupted for maybe a good 5 minutes. Thank you. If this is not a good answer, please refer to number 1. Thank you.

3. What is playing in your car stereo?

Am shy. Alright, alright. Charice.

4. What makes you smile?

A lot. A lot makes me smile. But mostly I laugh. Too vague? Ok, I smile when I finish one of my projects. I smile when the Dunkin Donuts barista actually is a barista. I smile when Joshua leaves me a nice drawing. Wait, i think this is the same as the happiness question. Or meeting people at Goodwill.

5. What is important to you?

My family. I always remind myself that no matter what happens, only your family is truly there for you.

6. What is your  favorite catchphrase?

Tell me more.

7. What is in your bag?

My bag is a black hole. You can find everything you see at 7 Eleven in my bag. No joke. But if I only need a bag to pretty me up, there is NOTHING in my bag. Promise. Oh wait. The tags and the receipt. Just in case.

8. What annoys you?

Heating oil delivery people. They are not doing anything wrong but I don't know they just annoy me. Maybe because I nedd to pay a lot of money everytime I see them.

9. What do you like  about facebook?

Looking at photos and witty status updates.

10. What motivates you?

I motivate myself. But believe me I have been very unsuccessful doing that.

Ok now, this is what I want you to do. Think about the things you want to ask yourself and honestly answer it. Nothing fancy, just straight and plain easy,  like a panini.  What do you get from this? It makes you realize that sometimes the best conversation is with yourself. Really, try it. I do this as many times as possible. I would say this keeps me going when the coffee is not working. Besides, what's better than knowing that what you say is the TRUTH or a fancy LIE? Now, GO.

In Goodwill, everything is available

Why, you even meet friends there? Goodwill, you are the best!

Yesterday, I was in need of a good book. I finished rereading ( yup, that's a word-- ray --ray -ding... at least in my book) for the 348th time The Nanny Diaries, which usually signals me to hook myself up with another love---finding new books. But, I have waaay too many books according to Mr.Hubbs, plus I have yet to replenish my imaginary savings account---so Goodwill is my BFF. For those not in the know--- oh, my if you are not into thrift shopping, you are losing out on a lot of things--- but that's good for me, I guess. Back to the topic---for you who are not into Goodwill (boo!!!), hardbound books are 1.99 and paperbacks are only .99 cents! Is that a deal or is that a deal?!! Is that a deal? Childrens' books are 99 cents and 59 cents respectively. Funny thing is, they price Harry Potter books and Pirates of the Carribean books as kids... good for me! My greatest find so far? My Nancy Drew series of 12---complete set! Oh love, love love!

So anyway, I went in on a snowy day of April. Yes peeps---April in Boston = SNOW. No April Fools joke here. Of course, I got more than books --- I met a new friend. Yes, in my all fleece blazing red jogging pants, white shirt and Hunter boots I-just-dropped-off-the-kids-to-school-after-I- rolled-out-of-bed look. La la la la--- I got me a brand new cool friend. Because I like telling people they got good deals, I told her she got good deal on a guitar. She turned around ,she asked me if I was Filipina, I did not know she was--- I swear! We chatted and we totally found out everything about us and our families in 2 seconds. She blogs too-- about food and photography. She is an interior designer by profession--- Booyah! I need a friend like that to help me with my DIY pa-ra-jects! I can totally imagine my projects getting done. The best part is that her kids are my kids age. Isn't that great? Awesome!

To tell you we are both ka-ray-zee is an understatement. I brought her to my house to show her that awkward space in my living room and get her professional opinion on what to do with it--- (I am totally USING her)... and she brought me to her house too--on the SAME day. She introduced me to Babycakes in Wollaston and I can tell you those darn cupcakes are good. So good that I hate it. I might just break my promise to improve my blood work results. We chatted in her house until we both needed to pick up the kids. What kids? Oh, OUR kids.

 I thought I was back in college again, because it sure felt that way. You know that feeling of meeting new people who you feel you have a special bond? Yeah, kinda like that. If only I was college age again too.

So, to my new friend Ces, here's to more talks and projects together!

GoodBYE Carlo.

Remember that cute commercial by Purefoods in the '90s? I know, I know I am revealing my age here. Well, I remembered it today because I was trying to make a mental note of some salty and carbo laden food I need to avoid because of my recent lab works--- my blood tests is gone AWRY.---
like ka-ray-ZEE. Watch and then scroll down to read my version.


Dear Diary,

That dress waved at me today. ( Pan the camera towards me)
It was calling my name---  ( insert booming voice) "hello there pretty."
Pero ( but then ) I was FAT--- (ZOOM camera to ME...)
Kaya, from now on...
Goodbye steak, goodye burger, goodbye---(pan camera to--- PALABOK--with lots of eggs and chicharon and galuggong).
Hmmmp--- GOODBYE dress.
HAPPY MUSIC
END

Privacy please

If you're like me, basically a freak when it comes to the neighbors being able to see IN your house ---- well then, sorry to tell you, it's really a scary world. I am not scared-y type,  but I am ka-ray-Zee like that--- no neighbors please. Puh-leeze. In fact I like my curtains down, except when Mr. Hubbs is home. Maybe I should go live in Texas or Utah, where they sell houses that look like dollhouses in those huge land so my next door neighbor is a  whole 6 miles.  I am dreamin'. Dreaming of the suburbia life? Nah.

But lucky you! I have a cheap yet effective project to share so that you can still have a lot of daylight coming through but not those preying eyes... ***enter horror movies soundtrack****. All you need is a little creativity and time and a friend like ME. Kachaaa!! Here's what you need to cover  glass windows and doors.

1. Transparent/ clear Contact paper. Buy yours at Wal-Mart--it's cheaper. $5.74 ---can it be any cheaper? For your privacy?
2. Soapy water
3. Your trusty old credit card. At least those nasty plastics will have some use. Or if you are like me, in love with vinyl decors, then you have one of those flat cardboard ones.

You are ready to go baby. Get those booty working.

Step 1. Read the manufacturer's instructions. This is important. Why? So I can skip explaining this part. Ahahhahha.

Step 2. Measure the part you need to cover up. But if you're lazy like me, if the Contact paper is shorter, then consider it architectural design. Kinda like a beveled mirror. Let it stay up in the middle. The important thing is, you are not visible form the outside and that you get a sense of security that no one can see you, yet you can see shadows from the inside looking out.

Step 3. Then this is where it gets tricky and messy. You slather your soapy water all over your desired area. Basically, just wet the Contact paper and smooth it with your plastic. Squeeze out--- I suggest to the sides and down. Patience is a virtue, so werq it. Werq werq werq.

Step 4. Pick up your mess. Only if you are like me--- MESSY.

Step 5. Now, this is really important. Do not miss this part.  Sit back, have your TEA.



Step 6. Admire your masterpiece of the day.

Isn't it lovely? Uber love! See what I meant in the beginning where your Contact paper does not really fill up the whole window or door? Make it like la-a-zee me. Looks like you intentionally wanted it that way, ain't it?

Let's see some before and after shall we?
Now you see me.....

Before--- anyone casn see you in all your glory--- or gory.

 Now, you don't. All for $5.74.

Beautiful privacy fo cheap!



As Josh would say... "Mom, you know EVERYTHING- aev-ree-thang!!

That's it for today folks. Have a wonderful St. Patrick' Day!

PS. I do not know ev-ree-thang.

PPS. Don't tell Josh.

Weekend update

I know, I know. I promised to update my "weekend" series. But I am a working mom, see? I am BeeZEE, like ka-ray-zee! But here's what happened this weekend.

I worked 2 shifts Friday so you know the drill--- 3pm Friday to 7am Saturday. Dropped off my handsome young man to Milton Academy, for his once a week class. Mr. Hubbs had to work Saturday morning so I was tasked to do this--- in fairness, he usually does it. BTW, did I tell you I broke my phone? Yup, peeps... I have been without a phone for over a week--- beat that! I was trying to call my friend Sol to tell her that Abercrombie have those $9.90 shirts available again-- she was so freakin' jealous when I had them and she was able to score ZERO! As in, NADA. So,  between trying to eyeball the shirts and grabbing each and every sale item, I tried to look over a black hole that is my bag, and dang!!! splat! woosh! There goes my ever reliable SiPhone. Goodbye my dear. And dealing with AT&T for giving  me a break regarding my phone upgrade is a nightmare. Ghoulish AT&T should die!!! I hate you! You have been sucking my hard earned moolah for so long and you can not adjust it for 3 months? Helluva lot of bad words in my mouth but ----I kept it calm like always---NOT!

So, on with what happened this weekend. I was sore all over. My mind, body and soul. The Japan tragedy was all I could think of. Backtrack a little bit, after I dropped off Pherry, I headed to Borders to pass time. I did not want to watch TV and feel traumatized over and over by those pictures. Starbucks coffee is my bestfriend in times like this and I ended up reading a whole chapter of Suze Orman's book. What's beside Borders?Why , Pier 1 Imports of course. So I floated away in my self described wasteland. They have spring lovelies... so run and go to your Pier 1.

Them, time for DreamLand. As the story of my life goes, my sleep is rudely interrupted by KC screaming; " Mom, it's time to pick up Koo-YAh!" ( Kuya-- big  brother). Oh! %**#@. But, yes I get up and go merrily. Whosoever created the term "stressed" should get the Nobel Prize, because I am STRESSED!!!!

We all stayed home after that just watching college basketball, well except for my 12 year old locking himself up---refusing to do ANYTHING with us-- anything that involves TALKING TO US. Did I say he is 12. Yeah, I know. But I had crafting in mind! I need to go! So, around 7pm, KC and I went to Michael's to buy me some yarn and felt paper. For a Spring project!! Spring makes me want to dance!!! Like floating in the Boston Islands. La la la--- Spring, please come soon. And this is what I made Saturday night... I am so proud... Spring is here my lovelies.

Baby pink yarn will be my company for this cold Saturday night

nothing beats the old fashioned yarn for me

Here is my weekend project folks....

Here's a close-up shot of those uber pretty Spring flowers....

Here's one more shot just because I want you to be super jealous.....

We miss Precious so much we had to pick her up for her regular weekend sleepover. Well, they have to
have something to do, right? So, they bought this little house to paint. See, beautiful, right?

 Funny how they turned on the TV and Josh said to put the volume down because "Dad is asleep" and Precious said, " I can't have popcorn without TV, so I need to watch." AHhahaha. Forget about fair warning Josh. She need to watch TV with her popcorn--- and it's got to be loud or nothing.

Well, Sunday is family mass day, The Quincy Llaga(s) and The Quincy Surwez--- yes, I am naming my family and friends like that-- all go to St. Joseph's Quincy. After mass, we had a sumptuous Italian lunch at Chateau and then we all went to the South Shore Plaza for a much needed relaxation----- SHOPPING!!! Yeebah! Shopping! I love me some shopping time! My friend Sol and I spent most of our time at Nordstrom shopping for some much loved MAC Ruby Woo. Victoria's Secret---just to ogle, coz I can't fit into them--- Bare Escentuals and of course--- drum roll please--- my ever favorite to shop--- abercombie and fitch. Did you notice it's the a&f---for KIDS people--- for kids... because I can't fit into those darn clothes. Their XL fits my ARM-- yes peeps--- my arm. I never step onto that shop. But I can buy those cuties--- for my kids. Meanwhile, model turned mother Miss Fridah was tending to the kids--- 5 in total, ranging from 12 to 1! Ahhh! My life is so blessed when she's around. I can actually savor shopping like NORMAL people--- because me rush rush----all the time! ka-ray-zee!  Then, off to a dinner ( unexpected-i-invite-myself) dinner at a friends house--- talk-talk talk----then off to another dinner, this time closer to home--- at Fridah's. Yup folks, after I let her take care of my kids, we go and eat dinner at her house. Whatchasayin? Lucky me? Yeebah! MissHG is so jealous because Sol and I have been together for a whole day she wanted to come for dinner--- uninvited! So we all spent the night eating and laughing while the boys paly tong-its.

The end.

Today

We were all inundated with the sad and tragic news of the earthquake/tsunami in Japan. The images are all but disheartening. I tear up easily, so it goes without saying that when I told my kids to turn on the TV while we were having breakfast ( I already knew about the disaster), I wanted to implant some good lessons in them---LIFE lessons. Much has been said and I do not want to flood you with videos and pictures that could break your heart.

Oftentimes, I complain about life way too much. I grinch when people are so incapable of my expectations. I easily fire up when I seem to fall behind schedule. I overreact when my kids misbehave. I silently swear when my husband seems too tired to have a good conversation. I hate the snow. I hate the  gas delivery man. I hate the mall opening at 12 on Sundays. I hate the all-too-short- hem of my dress. I hate the barista at my local Dunkin Donuts for adding too much cream on my coffee. You get the picture. I hate. I hate. I hate. Easily.

But we all do that. C'mon. I am coming clean. So you need to open up too. Yeah, that's the way it goes. I come clean, you come clean. There are so many ways we can handle things but we choose HATE. We pester ourselves and loved ones with so many trivial things. Yes, they are trivial. That non working laptop is trivial, that not-so-bright lamp is trivial, BTW, that no signal phone connection is trivial and so is that slow wifi connection. TRI-VIAL! Not so important! But we make it a big DEAL!!!! I can't log on to FB? TRIVIAL!!!

We focus on the trivial things. As I sit here typing this entry, I am at work overlooking the courtyard of Harvard Medical School, the sun is shining bright. Yet, I am focused only with 2 things: 1. I need to go and sleep, I have been working 2 shifts... blah blah blah. 2. Will this shitty computer work any faster? I fail to see that I am overlooking  THE Harvard Medical School and I disgress to admit that I am not appreciating Mr. Sun. I do not realize how I still have a job. A good and stable job. You see? See what I mean? ISn't it sad that I am feeling so much pain knowing that this is not me. What happened to me?

Maybe, I need to refocus my priorities. I encourage you to do so. That earthquake/tsunami is giving me  a lot of perspective. Sure, there have been a lot of world disasters that happened in the past but for some odd reason, this hit me really hard. Am I just getting old, therefore too scared? Or is it because I see my children and I see a darker world for them? Whichever it is, I know in my heart, yesterday was a HIT, not HATE. I got hit in the heart, really bad.

I am starting this beautiful day with this in mind. My life is beautiful. The world is beautiful. Life is precious. Nothing is more important than an aprreciation to this wonderful life the Creator gave us. That includes the shining sun, the bright sky, the chriping bird, the latte, the working barcode reader at Wal-Mart and that cheerful  Dunkin Donuts barista around the corner of my house.

Time to reflect and refocus!!!

hae a good day peeps!

Update : what's happened the last part of 2010

Ok. Where to start? Dang! I always end up promising to write everyday. Sorry, this will have to be one of those bullet blog entries just so I can chronicle my life. Remember, I started this blog as my online family diary. It does not have a theme--- a family theme I guess, but it is personal life. I have no agenda or whatso-evah. Not like other blogs where they write about specific stuff. Not me. I just want to look back and see all these entries and reminisce.

1. KC turned 10 last September. We had a simple dinner with a few of her friends at the South Shore mall. Instead of having loot bags, I let them go shopping at a&f and pick just 1 item at the  sale table. I did not realize how chaotic my idea was--- what with 8 girls!!! Never doing that again.

Josh, turned 8 October and I brought them to Quincy Marriott for swimming with his special friend Kirsten. You see, she is the only close friend he got who have been consistently there. Ben, another good friend moved to another city. Dinner is at Bertucci's with the Llaga's of Presidential Estate.

I turned another year older in Ocotber too. Instead of buying a bag --- I bought 5 leather Coach shoes. Stop rolling your eyes. So what? It's my birthday.

2. We moved into a house with 3 bedrooms--- 3 bedrooms! yahoo! KC finally got her own space. It is always an emotional roller coaster everytime I think about our home. I purchased my condo before I turned 30, with the intention of being a "transitional" residence until we can find a suitable home. Then, the market crashed--- there goes my plan in the drain. The house is a very old house but it has a lot of character. My landlord's son is this humble lawyer who went to the same school as my eldest. I met Ruth once only, but I feel she is a good person. The house is in town center, so we benefit with the vibrant city life --- lots of fusion restaurants and easy access to Boston. I skipped decorating for Thanksgiving and went straight to Christmas--- I had so much fun!!! Fast forward to today---- we went bed shopping at Jordan's Furniture and I got my 3 kids their own beds. Each one of them have their own bed. I guess I even went overboard--- I got KC a princess-like canopy bed. Soon, my kids will shut the door on me and be hooked up on the phone all day... hopefully that won't happen soon.


3.During the holidays--- we had so much parties going on.  Aside from having my first "real" tree, here's what's notable.

a. Met new friends at our annual "get to know more people" holiday party---- Hi Tony, Nat, Yasmine's family, Tin and Kathy.  Ayi ( Eugene's fiancee was there too. I met her before but this is the first time we hang out together. As always, the "monito-monita portion is really good. Did I say we played "Pinoy Henyo" and the boys lost? TWICE. Losers!

b. Had fun at Plymouth yearly holiday parade in the Town Square-- Mr. Hubbs and the kids love the FREE apple cider. The town square was just beaming with happy families. They had costumed carolers going around everywhere--- they had ice sculptures too. Just beautiful time with family.

c. We went to see a New England tradition--- the Enchanted Village at the Jordan's Furniture and got to see the Polar Express 3D. It was truly enchanting and beautiful. Oh, yeah they have the laser LITE show. The only one of its kind in the world. Check it out.  The village was like a "Christmas postcard" from the '70s.

d. Shopping was fun and tiring. I got very beautiful gifts from my great friends. I should note the engraved bracelet by RN Eric--- Mr. Hubbs' new BFF. I got a great deal with those Red Sox jackets that Mr. Hubbs had for Father's Day when we went to see the RS play. It was my first time at Fenway by the way. Aaaaw! So, I grabbed like a dozen of them and gave them to my bro-in-laws and close friends. Gifts here and there....I love seeing happy faces.

e. Christmas dinner was at the Llaga's of Brockton. As always  tons of food.

f. I went to see the Boston Symphony Orchestra's Boston Pops with Keith Lockhart. We were so close to the stage. My only regret? I should have brough KC with me. I was with my niece Pits. We dressed up really lovely.Without any intentions, we carried our Marc Jacobs Large Single purses...beautiful girls love the same purses. She has 2 kids of her own---Jem ( about 1 year old) and Ice ( 5) , so we really make fancy things when we can bond away from the Hubbs and the kids.

g.  New year's eve dinner--- simple "breakfast-dinner" at home with SisSol, RN Eric, VinceKat and the Llaga's of Presidential Estate. We all went to the mass and we had a very good sermon from the priest.

h. My sister Janette, Ice, Kc and me went to see Boston Ballet's The Nutcracker. Again, my first time. The Symphony Hall is majestic. I am hoping we could do this as family tradition. I wish my sister is going to move to Boston from Montreal. Please!!! Then, it was time for Llaga family gathering  for new year's welcome. We all welcomed the new year with dancing and food.

i. New year's day is at my house! All the people that mattered to me were there. Family and friends! I would  have wanted all my sisters and brothers, but for now-- I am happy for all these blessings.  All credit for the sumptous food that everyone raved about goes to my  sister Janette. Can you move here already?

4. Boston weather has been nasty. Twenty five inches of snow and 4 weeks of continuous snowstorm is hammering the state. The good thing about this? We have been enjoying neighborhood sledding. I'm too chicken to bring the kids to snow tubing and resort type winter activities. I guess, because I have seen so many kids rushed to the ER because of nasty accidents.

5. I have been enjoying the company of my girlfriends. Party because we like it is so much fun. The Llaga's of PE discovered this Pho restaurant in North Quincy and we've been going there lately. Last time was with Amor ( Mr. Hubbs' nephew) and of course, SisSol and RN Eric. I highly recommend having 1 or 2 great girlfriends. Friends make life interesting --- laughing at the most trivial things and knowing what the other is thinking just by looking at each other. A couple of weeks ago, SIsSol and HG and me went to SSP and had make-up sessions at Bare Escentuals, bough our own sets and dinner at Cheesecake Factory. It was so cold and we got locked out of the mall. We had to walked around the mall to get into our cars. i tell you, everything is bearable if you are with friends. Nevertheless, I was shivering, Ahahhahha.

6. Too many bags, too many shoes.

7. Pherry is part of the Central Middle School's Lego team again. They did not win, but it was fun seeing the kids enjoy building and be  team players. Someday, someday.

8.  KC and Pherry are both attending the Milton Academy Saturday Courses. Brilliant kids make a happy mommy! Last week, KC was invited to take the SAGES test for gifted students. Pherry is already a certified gifted student as far as SAGES certification is concerned. What can I say? Wait! KC is invited by her Milton Academy teacher to be her "little coach" to an upcoming science exhibit sponsored by MIT in Belmont MA. Are you awake yet? Yes, ladies and gentlemen, MIT!!! MIT!!! Ibang level na ito!

9. Did I tell you Mr. Hubbs bought me a beautiful diamond ring? All of 2.52 carats baby. The biggest stone in the middle is 0.75 but the quality of the stones ---- yummy! It is my first "expensive" piece. All my jewelry are given to me either by Inang ( mom) or my sisters--- lucky  me, ha? He has been bugging me about getting one but I am not one who clamors for jewelry. So, it was really a good treat for me. The best of all? I got to pick it myself!!! BTW, there is a side story about buying me a ring. He came home once, telling me how he saw the nurses he works with have these huge stones on their rings and why i do not have one. I told him, because I don't have to. He said, I should get at least one. I reiterated my lack of desire, although I would love it if he buys it for me---- makes for a better story. You know, when you say -- " oh, this? It's beautiful? Thank you, my husband/Bf got it for me."  He said to get one for Christmas. I never bothered. Until that day. Ha! He did not realize how expensive "those big rocks" are! He must have been regretting while signing the receipt. I am enjoying all the complements I have been getting recently though. I never understood the relationship of women and diamond. Ahhh, same way not a lot of people understand my relationship with bags.

10. Josh is preparing for his first communion. He did his first confession on February 2. I am sad, I was unable to attend, but I made sure I prepared his outfit and that Daddy was there for him.

11. Because KC has been really good in school and all her other activities, we decided it is time for her to get her first American Girl doll. Boy, was she giddy when her Dad went with her to the store. You see, KC and the boys have Sunday school and hip-hop on Thursday. Then she has ballet/ta/jazz classes on Wednesdays. Mondays/Wednesdays are after school programs. I think she does Sports Extravaganza and Showbiz. Saturday is for Milton Academy.  She is busy and sometimes she gets tired but never really wanted to drop any of the activities. She deserves to finally have that doll.

Hopefully, I can update more often now. See yah!

English-Tagalog

It's my weekend to work. Don't you think weekend and work should NEVER go together?  Not in the same sentence, you know. Like Red Sox and Yankees or Lakers and Celtics. No! This world is designed for 7-3 work or maybe 9-5 but not weekends or graveyard shifts. But enough with my complaining. I just have to be at work. I work at a hospital, better than being at the hospital--- sick.

While rushing Joshua to get dressed already, Pherry echoes me and says "hurry up, you boy." I thought Josh would go ballistic again because he does not like being called "boy". This, after he declared he is no longer a baby, but a boy---a kid, I guess is what he meant. Then, Pherry started calling him--boy. Instead, this is what happened.

Josh: Kuya, it's not hurry up, it's dolly up!
Pherry: What?
Me: (while rolling Josh' sleeves)  Dolly up!
Josh: Mom, it's not Doll-y up, it's duh-ly up!
Pherry: (laughs) ahhhh...
Me: what? what?
Pherry: Dali na! You know, whatever you say when you are in a hurry and forget your English language altogether... Dali naaaa!!!

Ahhahahhah! Ampucha, dali na nga kayo!

Time to say goodbye

Goodbye to this FUGLY lamp!!! Yeah, finally I got this uber chic drum shape lamp--- at---where else, TJ Maxx!!!  Admire my bargain for the day!!!

First, look at this ugly baby...what was I thinking? Maybe it was on super clearance? Maybe I just needed something... kahit na, ang pangit pa rin! ( Even so, it's still ugly.)



What are those little "pineapple dots?

Now, drool with my new and improved taste in interior design. Aba, dapat lang nababagay sa akin ang level ng lamps ko. Heheheh.



See, Bradford pa lang sushal na ulam na





O, di ba, pang Ballard Design ang impak(ta)



Ganda di ba?

See,  i told you it is beautiful

Well, what say you?  Drum shape+toned down fabric= uber chic! Can you go to TJ MAxx buying only one item? NO!!!  Because I am missing the Philippines  so much, I had to have these. My eyes popped when I saw them.

Balimbing, balimbing!

Yeah, I need motivation to clean

This is my "color me bad" display to shoo away this dreary winter. Shoo!

Notice those vintage milk and orange bottles? Love them to bits.

My take on vintage bottle display

If you read a lot of home blogs such as this, you will know what I mean.

 I don't want to be mean so I am going to tell you the truth: Those balimbings ( star fruit) are FAKE!!! Fake! Fake! Fake!!!!

Now, it is time to say goodbye! Goodbye to this winter!!! Spring, where art thou?

Who's handsome

Well, my boys of course!

Josh: ooohh, I forgot Dad's mustache.
Me: That's ok
Josh: NO...
You know, that NO look where he is like totally upset cause something's missing in the grand scheme of things. Oh, I love Friday mornings. Ampucha umaga pa lang, bigote na usapan.

Sorry

I have not forgotten about this blog. Be back soon! Get ready!

Ten things I can not live without

This is a random tag post from a fellow blogger. They said just tangible stuff. I say, " What is tangible? " Heheheh. I am supposed to post 10 within 10 minutes --- just for fun. Ten minutes, what the heck!  Give me 2 and I tell you my life story. Hahahaha.

1. My kids-- I can touch them-- their tangible.
2. Contact lens or my eyeglasses
3. Netflix- I can touch my TV or Wii where I can watch my shows. Lately iPaddy has been hidden to me by Pherry. What did I do before Neflix? I love you Netflix!!!!
4. My Dansko clogs- dang! this clogs are the most comfortable. I wear them everywhere. Fashion faux paus! Who cares?
5. Burt's Bees lip balm- what can I say? I am addicted to this.
6. My uber abused leather ottoman. The most versatile piece in my living room.
7. TJ Maxx- yesss! I need one in every corner. I have been navigating Pier 1 lately but TJ Maxx is love!
8. Land's End jeans- Aside form Michael Kors petite jeans, these are the only pants that flatter me---- well at least the one within my budget.
9. Eyebrow threading- This I do at least once a month. I can skip mani/pedi but not this. I feel I need no make-up if I do this, like  I am well groomed just by doing this.
10.My BAGS-- I do not give away my bags--- at all! I only gave away 1 bag. A white Kate Spade to my uber special niece Yayo. It's not about the price or anything but the joy I get form a good deal, a classic or just some random occasion attached to the purchase of the bag.

Whoooa! That was not easy as I thought.  You see, I am very simple. I hear you snickering!!!!! I can live without my cellphone, my make up kit, car, laptop ( wait--- i don't have a laptop). A lot of people can't even live without their cellphones. I betcha that would be on the top 10 of a lot of people.

I gotta hurry, time is winding!

Things do change. Thought I'd share

Look what I saw while shopping

It's a Friday, not a payday and it is gloomy.  Sad! With so many things going on, I needed a pick me up thing to do. I figured I'd go to Sears ( gasp!!!) and return the curtains and rods I picked. Since I practically found $25.00 while cleaning up... that's another story, I can spend it, maybe a pedicure or some such. Got some stuff at Juicy Couture, the twin bedsheets set I got is adorable. And no, it is not for my bedroom, for KC. Not in the mood to shop although I ended up spending way too much more than the 25 I intended, i tell you that!

But, look what I saw while roaming around the mall! Well, hello there Manny Pacquiao!

This is at the Champs Store, South Shore Plaza, Braintree MA

I am starting to take it personal, all of his fights end up on my weekend to work. Mind you I work once a month.

What's up with that MP logo/brand



Those damn muscles beat out a lot of boxing greats... de la Hoya, isdatchu?



You know what cracks me up? All the advertisement(s) on his trunks! CafePuro! That MP brand on upper right corner is wicked, meaning wicked ugly. Not very soothing to the eyes. Manny should hire a better PR manager who manages all these stuff. Someone who is business savvy but also creative and at par with the best people  in the industry. Manny, hint hint... ME!

Either way, this is a wonderful thing. Warms me up. I am so proud of him. He may have a lot of personal "issues", but he is a good boxer. One hell of a good boxer! he is dedicated and focused --- with a very generous heart if I may say.

I would have had a "jologs" moment if someone was willing to take a picture of me with this standee. Hahaaa! So there, very productive day. I went to the mall for a "pick-me-up" pedi and I got more than I asked for. The warm feeling I get every time a Filipino's great achievement is featured is an all time high. Yeah, I am a patriot... a Filipino patriot. In fact, one guy shopper came up to me and asked me if I was watching the fight and I said,  "of course" and he smiled thinking I must be a "stalker" of MP because I was taking pictures of a cardboard!

Manny Pacquiao against Antonio Margarito on November 13 will be a big day. Fight on MP, fight on Filipino.

Sweetest thing on a gloomy Friday

 

Watch what I do....



Ok, ok... lemme show you...

Now, do as I do... see?

Now, do it on your own...

Lemme tighten it... good job.