Brag Day

It seems I can't really do a series. I started calling at Monday Brag Day but my "mommybragging" day is so inconsistent I decided (today, LOL) to just call it Brag Day. So when i write on any day of the week, it's ok. Please forgive me.

So, last Thursday, KC came home with this.

My KC is such a role model.

Ultimately, my goal is for my kids to be good citizens and good children of God.  It seems KC is heading to the right direction. Hope you all have a great day!

Happiness

Happiness is having these kids in my life. Happy Thursday.

About Time

Let's get this out of the way before anything: I am doing this to end it all, if this be my last piece, let it be.

Now, on with my response. There are so many ways to answer this but let me do the bullet point type because i do not want to deviate from the topic. I will only answer what is stated.

I'm not supposed to say anything about the posts concerning my mother and my aunt because I know that my mother would not approve of me joining something as controversial as this and I'm not ma I just want to clear things up because I don't care what they say about you and tita gina.I love you both no matter what mistakes you have made in the past that they seem to have gone out of their way to bring up again.

My dear, your mother and tita posted first. Truth. Ask everyone who will tell you the truth. Review the posts. My profile is in Public mode. Then honestly answer yourself. If after that you still feel the same way, it should. She is your mama after all. But, use your brains. 

But some of those posts made my sister cry, and NO ONE makes my sister cry(except me). 

This is sad. Kids should never cry because of their mother's wrongdoing. Or ill-manners for that matter. 'Nuff said. Console your sister and tell her that what transpired should make her a better woman and not put her down. After all, she has YOU to emulate. Unfortunately, your mother is so NOT  worth emulating. 

Now let me set your statements straight. I saw a post(yup I checked on the so-called negative posts but just out of curiosity) I couldn't care less about them saying negative things about my family because it's not important. I know my family is not perfect but I wouldn't trade them for any price. 

My dear, maybe you should not be on FB. Intelligent as you are, according to your mama, you know there are dangers lurking and as your Tita and mama said, " there will always be opinions and comments that you should readily take because you posted them online."Yup,  no one is perfect. Not my family, not yours. I would never say mine is, moreso with yours. I know some truths that would invalidate that if you were to state otherwise.

Nothing is more disturbing than waking up in the morning with your mom telling you that your sister cried herself to sleep because she could not bear people saying bad things about our mother.

There is something more disturbing. Wanna know? Having a mother like yours. A mother who likes to laugh at other people yet, when confronted, cowardly go under the " it was never  you, i never named you, mangan sili magasangan route." What a pity. Yes, what you described is disturbing, but it is your mother's doing. Want to see the "disturbing" side it created? Maybe not. But let me tell you a bit. It hurt me, my husband and family. Don't be silly, you know the truth. Seek answers elsewhere where no one will blindside you. Ask your other family members. The truth hurts. It hurts both ways.

 I am the "ate" i have to turn the other cheek.But I can't. I read a post where it said "kaasi kami kanu nga annak ni Carmelita Co" well let me just correct you right there you CANNOT SIMPLY DRAG THE CHILDREN OF SOMEONE YOU ARE ARGUING WITH INTO THE ARGUMENT. What Is up with that? Don't they have children themselves? 

This is where I started questioning your intelligence. Did you read my post? Or you passed judgement without analyzing? WHat I clearly said is, " Carmelita Co, stop posting those or else I will do something you will regret, kaasi dagita annak mo." Let me point it out to you if it is not clear, as we adults sometimes make it hard for you to understand. I meant to say that your mama has posted bad stuff online attacking me and I wanted her to top because if I retaliate, it will only affect you, the kids. Kaasi dagita annak mo. Hija, I can control myself but not for long, that is why I told her that. But if you want, I can show you matters I'd rather not. Just comment on this post or tell people to reach out to me. I am sure you can find a  way to reach me. Beware though. You may not like it and it may shatter your illusion of "family."

My mother fights with people a lot I can tell you that but she NEVER brings up the children of her enemies. 

Is this for real? Oh my God. Nuff said. Hahahha. But on a more serious note, let me tell you, this is VERY disturbing. AND it is alright? Maybe you find it amusing that your mother fights a lot as long as she does not bring up children? How about the people she fights with? Their family? Do you stop and pause and think about them? Does she? I think NOT. Not because something is OK with you it is acceptable for me. Listen dear, if your mother can't tell you, I will. Fighting is not good, whether you bring children to the fray or not. Tell your mama to stop fighting. Girl, her reputation precedes her already. Just so you know, I never brought you or your sister at all. The post you read was just that. Refer to my innuendo above.

She knows it is not right because she always told me it's okay for her to get struck by karma just as long as it doesn't affect me and my sister. 

Again, this is wrong. So let me tell you, is it ok for her to steal so long you don't because it is wrong? Karma? Talk about karma. It is coming to get her. Very soon, remember the pigs bring a whole lot of bad karma. Oh, by the way, she called me a pig. Please don't insult my intelligence by saying, " i never named you." The only honor left she has is standing by her word, so let her. Please.

Those children might be too young and too weak. Im not weak but my sister, my sister cried for those posts not because she thought they were true but because she did not like people saying bad things about our mother.We are not "kaasi". My mother is one of those "women" who did not get to finish college because she got pregnant with me. When I was young I used to think that it was my fault. She never made me feel this way though. Once she even said it was all her and my papa. She told me it wasn't even a mistake. Only strong women can do that. To stand by something that would cause them humiliation. Others get an abortion to recieve education. My mother didn't even think of discarding me from her womb. She stood by what she has done and never let me feel that I was a mistake nor a burden to her.

I dont know what to say about this abortion thing, this is out of the topic. But yes, she is strong for that. I never even knew she was unwed when she had you. Now I know. AND the whole world knows. Not that it would change anything. Her reputation is worst than that.

My mother gave birth and gained a wonderful family to add with her family from the side of her parents with new strings of friends and a beautiful marriage. If I ever get married I want a marriage like what my parents have.

Be careful what you wish for.

 They fight,sure. But they don't give up. When we are together and someone has to leave my parents kiss. A quick sweet smack. My dad kisses my mom before leaving for work everytime we are in manila. I mean those are the little things in life that makes it meaningful. The kind you think only happens in movies the things other people can't see. Those are the moments we should be proud of. I know my mom fights a lot. But this is really silly. People not included are actually joining in. Which to me is childish doing The last time I did that was when I was 14 years old, my second year of highschool.But go ahead do what you want I don't care. Give me some popcorn though because I am amused by how much people know about my family. I'm not joining in though I just wanted to let people know that my sister and I are not "kaasi" if anything we are lucky to have a mother like ours. Not everyone is strong enough to go through an unexpected pregnancy and be happy with it. To the women out there who were strong enough, I salute you. Your children are as lucky as we are. To my mom and tita gina just ignore them. No one you care about will change their views of you anyway.We will still love you. Your true friends will not join in nor defend you they will only laugh about this issue because if they are true to you then they won't care about your mistakes no matter what others say. You are not losing people you love with this if anything we will be here to support you. Now if I have offended anyone with this post though I can't seem to get why since it is all about my love and support for my family and nothing else, I don't care what you say about me. I will stand by my family with their mistakes and learn from them. If you get offended with my declaration of love then go ahead post about me too. You would just be helping me figure out who would stay by my side anyways. So thank you. I love you mama. I love you tita gina. I love my family AND their mistakes because I know I'm not perfect anyways. Let the judging begin from the perfect people around us who are waiting for and clinging on to our mistakes in their memories. I hope I get judged at a young age. I hope I can be as blessed as my mother right now because right now, she already knows who really cares about her. She already knows to whom she would give her love to and the people she should treasure. I hope I can distinguish people I should keep in my heart from people I should just ignore. Tonight I'm going to pray again like every night(another teaching of my mother) I'm going to pray to God and thank Him for the wonderful friends and family He has blessed me with. — with Gina Velasco Gatan and Carmelita

No my dear, you have not offended me at all, nor my family. What it did is give me an intelligent venue to answer where it seems impossible to have with your mother.

You don't want popcorn because if you do, this will go on and on. If no else told you yet, I never start a fight but I do not back off from it. Not even with your mother who you said fights a lot or even when people told me to ignore her. So, no popcorn for you.

Now to some salient points to ponder before you start your Journalism course, by the way, I heard you failed UST, maybe try FEU? I went there, I turned ok. Just ok. Better than your mother I suppose. Don't attack me please, that was a journalistic jab  ; ).

1. Seek the truth. The whole truth.
2. I never took your mama seriously until she posted about me and my sisters and our children. NOW that is worth researching, ha? Ask her. At one point before, she point blank ask me if I was pregnant because I looked big and I just said, no i' just fat. If I was ap-apera like your mom, i would have. But no, I am better than that. The problem with your mama is she is so laitera. I may be fat but she is  not skinny either. She looks like, never mind. Now, I am getting upset, ha?
3.If you go back to the posts, you will notice I even defended her to her supposed detractors saying she buys your medals in school. Truth.
4.I am not baboy. Her personality is.
5. My husband is not gurang. My husband has nothing to do with this. Please tell her that. The same way you don't want to be part of this ugly saga, my husband has nothing to do with this. Want me to include your dad here too? 
6. I am not a " greener pasture" girl. I hate to burst your bubble but I am a college graduate -- not like your mom. I was an honor student like you in the same school now, not like your mom. I had a beautiful wedding attended by many, unlike your mom. So i am SO unlike your mom. Yup, she said we are not on the same level. Truth. Why would I want to be on the same level as someone with a bad reputation? WHy? Why would I want someone who even her so called friends tell me to ignore her because she is just that? I can not publish the other terms they use on her. Bad, very bad.
7. Your lola was a katulong who got pregnant by her amo, your lolo. Truth. There is nothing wrong with that. NOTHINg! You know what's wrong and why I brought it up? Because I was putting emphasis on " tumingin ka sa pinanggalingan mo" We are fishermen and smell stinky ( may putok daw ako, sabi ng mama mo, siya naman ang may putok at super yellow ang ngipin, yuck!). Your titas and cousins or mama should never put people down. You learn that in school don't you?
8. Apologies should be sincere. 
9. When you do public apology, make it as it is. Do not add yabang or paawa effect. You lose credibility on it. Then people start PMing and texting how ridiculous it is.
10. You are an extremely intelligent girl. Keep it up. Stay on the Suguitan-Co side though. They will influence you better. 
11. It is not in my place to say so many things I want to tell you, but can I please say, I am not the one who started this.
12. I expect you to believe your mom, you will grow up though and you will see. I just hope that because of this, she will sincerely be changed. 
13. I am no saint either. Take it both ways.

As for your Tita Gina, it's all a different story.

History Bowl State Championship

Ok, ok! This is really exciting. Pherry joined History Club in the beginning of the school year. Remember he is on his 9th grade only.
Anyway, he joined the bee amongst peers and he qualified to be on the Team for History Bowl. He is Quincy Team A.
They are now here at Everett High and awaiting to compete.

I am just truly proud.
Pray for us please!

I Am Crazy For Tom Brady

So, i suppose there are more fanatic fans of the Patriots and Tom Brady out there... more.than.me. Seriuosly? I thought I was the MOST. FANATIC. PATRIOT. FAN EVER. Believe it or not, I can take the it when the Celtics lose, the Bruins don't get into Finals, heck, I can still smile even if the Red Sox lose---BUT if the Patriots lose? Dang, move out of the way! I cry, I don't listen to news, no TV, no radio, no news, ignore all conversations regarding the Pats for a very looooong time. Go ask my kids.

Anyway, here are 2nd graders who bested me out for Pats/Brday fan of the year. Enjoy.

Watch and Listen Ray Lewis!

Mommy Brag Day

I so love it when I see these! My treasure, my wealth.
😍

One More Try

What would you do if your child is dying? At what great lenghts you go to make him survive cancer? If you ask me, I know exactly what to do.
This movie tackles this, it's a little cheesy for my liking but I do love the lines, "mahal kita, pero mas mahal ko ang anak ko." And the scene where Angle Locsin ( the mother) kneeled for the favor... heartbreaking and what exactly I would do for my child. For the record, according to the MTRCB rating, it's worth watching. According to chuvaness of chuvaness.com, Teddy Locsin is watching, so go.

Brag Day

Hay naku, can't wait for Monday Brag Day. So here...
Pherry told us over dinner that he was in Distinction, you know, kinda higher than High Honors. Yeah, right... but whatever. I know him to be really smart but Distinction? Woaaah, wait a minute, that needs further investigation, LOL.

The following day, the proud parents that we are--- we proceeded to his school and this is what happened....
We looked in Honors column, NO LLAGA. Hmmmm.

... In High Honors
Shocks, so many names but no Llaga. Just Li, Lam, Le, Lei or any Asian variation. ;

Well, well don't take back your gifts yet aunts and uncles! Because he is ....
. .. here. Yup, seriously.

 

Ok, ok... just in case you did not see. Mr. Hubbs said--- take another picture because it might not be very clear. Ohhhh, stage daddy!!!

Hahahhaha. I thought I was crazy. Seriously, the last picture is not scripted. HE WANTS TO POINT IT OUT! YUP!

After that, the principal  saw us and kinda sheepishly said, "pictures, ha?" I said, " obvious first timers, ha?"
It was all fun. I love it. I love my crazy family. Happy Thursday my lovelies.

Brag Day

I'll say it with a picture ! Because a pictures says a thousand words.

Uh oh! Wish List Shows up

This is what I saw this morning! Waaah!
I am not worried it's a "wish" list after all, besides that's what titos and titas are for! ) ; evil grin!
Si Josh, maka wishlist , wagas! Mac? May want? Optional ba?

The start of my shopping season, I suppose. I bought nothing--- as in nothing for Black Friday and Cyber Monday so I guess I can spare some of whatever little money saved up for this wishlist --- hotwheels, maybe? Hihihi.

I guess now, I can greet you all Merry Christmas!

Quincy City Hall Holiday Lights are up

You all know I love Christmas-- happy season for me!

My Christmas trimmings are not up yet but hey, city hall is, so here you go. Sorry for the phone pics.

Notice Mr. John Adams is decked out too!

How about you, are your trimmings up? Share!

Monday Brag Day

Math, no.
Chemistry and Biology, yes.

Politicians and their Progress and Development Scheme

I used to hate politicians letting their family use publicly funded vehicles to drop off their children in my school. I still do, you know, I still hate that. But i have developed deeper anger with politicians destroying nature and camouflaging it as "progress and development". If you can't protect the very people you are suppose to protect, if you are unable to do your job, if you can not stand up for the land you swore to protect, what else are you good for?
Public service is for good men--good men willing to work not for their personal interest but for the good of the many.
I ask you, i ask for your decency---quit!

Filipino Translation

have you had that experience when you are watching movies with subtitles/translation and the message is lost or not completely conveyed because of the translation? or the deep emotions of a song is not really felt if translated? well, read on.

Precious, my sister's grandchild and my nephew's daughter sings--- she has the passion, so we have been "modestly" encouraging her. but that's another story. anyways, she was with us when Mr. Hubbs dropped me off to work last night. she was being funny and started singing Filipino iconic song Nandito Ako. as she was singing she complained that she does not know the meaning of the song. so, as she was singing i translated. needless to say, she was not very happy and commented that " it's weird'. so i told her i will translate per line so it has more meaning. she sarted singing again and for some reason i can not completely and wholeheartedly translate the intense emotions of that song without sounding "weird". Then she stopped and said, " wait, is that how Tagalog is,  like I can sing a whole 2 lines and no translation yet? uhmm, Mamu's just slow. Hahahhahha.
so, just for fun, here's my futile attempt to tranlate Nandito Ako.

Mayro'n akong nais malaman
I need to know something
Maaari bang magtanong?
Is it possible to ask you a question?
Alam mo bang matagal na kitang iniibig?
Do you know, I have been loving you for a long time/I have been in love with you for so long
Matagal na akong naghihintay
I have been waiting for so long
Ngunit mayro'n kang ibang minamahal
But you are in love with someone else/You are loving someone
Kung kaya't ako'y di o pinapansin
Thats why you do not notice me/That's why you ignore me
Ngunit ganon pa man nais kong malaman mo
Inspite of it, I still want you to know
Ang puso kong ito'y para lang sa 'yo
This heart of mine is yours alone
Nandito ako umiibig sa iyo
I am here, loving you
Kahit na nagdurugo ang puso
Even my heart bleeds
Kung sakaling iwanan ka niya
If ever he leaves you
Huwag kang mag-alala
Don't worry
May nagmamahal sa iyo,
There's someone loving you
Nandito ako
I am here
Kung ako ay iyong iibigin
If you love me back
Di kailangan ang mangamba
There is no need to worry
Pagkat ako ay para mong alipin
Because I am like your slave
Sa iyo lang wala ng iba
I am yours and no one else/I belong only to you
Ngunit mayro'n ka ng ibang minamahal
But you are in love with someone else/You are loving someone

Kung kaya't ako'y di o pinapansin
Ngunit ganon pa man nais kong malaman mo
Ang puso kong ito'y para lang sa 'yo
Nandito ako umiibig sa iyo
Kahit na nagdurugo ang puso
Kung sakaling iwanan ka niya
Huwag kang mag-alala
May nagmamahal sa iyo,
Nandito ako
Nandito ako umiibig sa iyo
Kahit na nagdurugo ang puso
Kung sakaling iwanan ka niya
Huwag kang mag-alala
May nagmamahal sa iyo,
Nandito ako
Nandito ako...
by now you probably figured i am not a songwriter nor a poet. i am a laboratory scientist. that i am. but i guess, more than my lack of skills, i really think that each language is so different and emotions are totally lost in each even if you try. darn kids, they do really say the darnest things.

but since music is universal, listen and be swayed with this beautiful love song. have a blessed Sunday my dear readers especially those from far away Middle East and my beloved Philippines. salamat po!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3hhaiKGAZf8

Hurricane Sandy

Bummed that I am the only one going to work tomorrow due to No School announcements, I decided to eat. Yeah, punish myself by eating-- fruits. Yeaaaah! These kind of days are my turn off--- my kids are home but I need to go to work. Bummer!

Anyway, while eating, teasing and laughing-- KC asks me , "you still blog mom?" I said I was too busy for work and told her she should continue her blog. Then, out of the blue, Mr. Hubbs said, " stand right on that chair by the window, jump and there you go, blag!"

Hahahaha! Parang komiks Lang, " pak, pak, ka blag."

Happy Sunday!

37 random thoughts on my birthday

Another year? Well, last year, I wrote about this...and I got a lot of responses. It's just one of those matter-of-factly-we-are-friends conversation. I love writing like this. Maybe I am not meant to be a technical writer nor a journalistic one. So, let's talk, shall we?

1. Let's get it out of the way--- I still hate dandruff. Yup, I do. You all know that but here's the ugly part, Pherry has dandruff. Is it a teenager thing? Man, I hate it. I screamed when I was hugging him one morning and I saw those "snow" in  his head. KC got scared and both asked why I was screaming and making a grim face. You all know why. Yuck!

2. We always hear "life is short, let's make it worthwhile". But it brings so much more meaning to me now more than ever. Please pray for the soul of my mother-in-law and fast recovery of a fellow Filipino now recovering here in Boston MA.

3. My 2 Boston bestfriends are the greatest. If I have to live my life again, I'd still want to be friends with them. I love you SolSister and HG.

4. My niece Pits is my BFF--for life. And yeah, I owe her $2945.00 AND that's not why I said she is my BFF. Hahhahah.

5. I have the most adorable kids. Pherry, KC and Josh are my redemption.

6. I  realized how tolerant I am more than I give credit to myself.

7. I am so not enjoying my worklife right now. Refer to number 6.

8. Bon Chon is my fave restaurant of the year. Beat Minado for 2012.

9. I have a girl crush on Xtina. But boy, do I love Blake!

10. I'd love to go to San Francisco in 2013. Let's make it happen Mr. Hubbs.

11. I have not done a decent spa day since I started my new job.

12. I am grateful of my profession now more than ever. We were at Cheesecake Factory last Monday and a Filipino lady automatically assumed I was a nurse ( not that there is anyhting wrong with that, I would gladly be one if I can), she said " mga nurse kayo ano? I said, " hindi po." Ay, eh anong trabaho mo? ( Paki mo?) I almost said, "blogger po". But the good girl won and I said meekly, " med tech po". She said, Oh, di dapat nag duktor ka? To which I retorted, " hay, wag na po, mukhang marami na po kayo masyado. She said, " hindi ako doctor, nurse ako. " Alam ko po. Gets niyo?

13. I love red lipstick. MAC Ruby Woo and MAC Russian Red are my fave. I wear them to mass, work and when I go to Stop and Shop and Goodwill. Basically, everywhere. Inaapropriate? Maybe. Makes me happy? Yes!

14. Someone told me " friend, di ka pa umaalis sa kusina ah". I almost said, di ka pa umaalis sa Kapangitan ah. But I said " sinasamahan ko lang itong pamangkin namin na taga Michigan. Itsura. Ate, manalamin ka nga. Hmmmmp.

15. You really get to know your true friends in times of sorrow. My friends who I rarely see due to family and work commitments or just simply for being too far away from each other showed up at my monther-in-law's wake and burial.

16. There are so many grateful people. There are a few complainers and they make so much noise, it drowns Peace and Prosperity. Oh, Peace and Prosperity, how I chase you!

17. I don't feel any love towards iPhone 5. Seriously. Or maybe, I juct can't afford it. More likely.

18. I need a PC like I need air.

19. I need another bag like I need a toothache. So, no bags. Shhhh. Let's not make the Bagfairy upset.

20. I tend to forget lunch most of the time yet I am still gaining weight.

21. I wish the Patriots would win the SuperBowl this year. Please don't break my heart. Please...

22. Mr. Hubbs is becoming a great cook. Yup, I now believe in "practice makes perfect".

23. I have to teach myself not to get so disappointed when I meet my virtual friends.

24. My penmanship is getting worse. If you know me, now you know why I write emails. Sorry.

25. I still do not get the concept of saving. Sorry.

26. I have so much admiration to cancer/calamity survisors. Great great positivity. I salute them more than those self-proclaiming over achievers.

27. Instagram is my 2012 best discovery.

28. I have been bad lately. I have not been to mass for at least 75% of the time for the last 3 months. Shame.

29. There is more to life than bags. Yeah right.

30. I hate it when I see people using free medical care but have lavish lifestyles--- cars, fancy shoes and bags, vacations and such. Really? I pay so much taxes and I pay high deductible for you, so please stop spending my money.

31. I am easy to please but hard to impress. With family and friends like mine, not a single person can impress me with just " looks and wealth". To impress me, you have to do a lot of good advocacy for the needy AND be quiet about it. Then, I am impressed.

32. I tend to gravitate towards happy people now. Drama and stress is so 1990s. Right?

33. I have to learn how to ride a bike, do skating and real swimming. On that note, I have to re-learn that shopping, people watching and internet navigating ARE not sports. So be it. Help me God.

34. I have to buy Lady DIor. Yes Ma'am, Lady Dior before Celine Luggage.

35. I am looking forward to the things that make me happy. Friends, family, vacations, frozen soda, red lipsticks, dancing in the rain, spa day, Netflix, Glee and The Voice. Also, tinola, maggang hilaw and binatog. Simple things make me happy. Pass the taho, please.

36. I wish to have a humongous reunion with my cousins on my mother's side of the family. My cousins are lovely people.

37. I wish everyone has family and friends like mine. It's a treasure.

I am grateful for all the blessing The Almighty has showered me and my family. I continue to cherish even the simplest things in life, like a freshly brewed coffee and a tiny drizzle in the morning. I have a lot of dreams and aspirations but for now, I am content with what I have and I share what little things I can. I hope all my family nad friends realize how happy I am to be surrounded by this much love.

With that, I leave you with these photos. I have more pictures but for now, let me buy myself a computer so I can blog my life away.

Here's a picture on my birthday dinner hosted by Mr. Hubbs;



With my "sponsor". Thanks RN Eric

Thank you note on my birthday

I am gifted with the greatest friends ever! I am surrounded by highly intelligent, successful, beautiful and generous people--I could not ask for more. So, to my dear friends, thank you for all the love and time you have given me and the family. From graduations to communions and birthdays, from simple occasion and lavish celebrations to sad beginnings and  happy endings, from grand vacations to just simply hanging out---- you were all there! The gifts were great, but the company is so much better---and i know the best is yet to come! Happy birthday to me! Hahahhaha.

Sabi nga ni Ate Vi, I love you Lucky! In my case, I am lucky.

First Day of School 2012

Well,  here we are in October and I am still catching up on LlagaLand's family activities. First day of school and I have not done a Summer 2012 post yet? Woooah! Crazy huh?

Anyway, we do not really go crazy on back-to-school shopping because we do so little by little. Outfits? I buy when they are on sale, so I do not really budget for the beginning of the school year.

Precious came with us. I love it. Although school shopping is crazy, it is fun---we are the Llaga's, remember?

So here they are--- my Three Little Monkeys who don't seem to be so little anymore. Suddenly it hits me. Really? A freshman in high school? AND MOMMY, you are embarrassing---apparently taking pictures is not cool. So what? Did I hide the camera. Nooooo. I pulled over to the side street and convinced the young gentleman that no on is looking. It did not really work but it make him feel better, at least it is not in front of the school. And KC? She's ok, as long as you don not ask her to pose. She smiles, you shoot, get out. HAhahha. No take twos. She smiles, you shoot, get out. Josh just simply runs away. I had to "pull" my "palengkera" stunt to let him stop and smile for mommy.

I meant this shot to be a 2012 school year announcement picture but they refused to put their backpacks down. They said the ground is wet---so OCD like their dad.  I still think the picture is a great concept.

Pherry is now a freshman is high school. He has 4 AP classes (Advance Placement) and 1 Honors class. Needless to say, he is extremely busy and stressed. It has been over 5 weeks and I can still say he is still very organized--I hope he stays that way. That is the only complaint his middle school principal---- she actually wonders how he passes his exams considering how disorganized he is. Just thinking about his school load makes me tired. I did ask him if he wants to enroll in regular classes and he says he is fine. I don't believe in too much stress for kids just to compete. True, you need to have all the edge you could to get to the best colleges but I know the school admissions now are looking more and more to well rounded kids. Gone are the days where academic excellence is the only measure.

Isn't he so handsome? Please indulge my mommy moments. And just so you know, these braces cost an arm and a leg. But I don't care--- having nice set of teeth is an edge in life, right?  ; )

Joshua just ran off. He knew I was going to ask him to smile so I can take pictures. He is so funny. He tells me, "mom, you can't take pictures, Miss Witmer is there." When I looked, I turn around and he is gone I had to yell for him to stop. Oh, boy, I can only imagine when he goes to high school. He actually asked his big bro tips for high school and Pherry just told him..." blend, blend.... wear grey and nothing fancy so no one notices you." What a profound advice, ha?

KC is the last drop off. See, my 3 Little Monkeys go to different schools and this will go on for 3 more years. I know, I thank you. I am a great mom. Hahhahahha. Just kidding. I am sure there are more moms out there who do greater things for their children. Also, Mr. Hubbs drops them off most of the time. Funny side story: Josh told me one day, "mom, ever since Dad started dropping us off, we have never been late." I told him, well, that's because Mom comes from night shift and it is difficult and he tells me "yeah right" and then kisses me knowing he kinda pinched me in the heart a little bit.

My only princess is in middle school officially! Wow. Am I getting old or am I getting old/ Hahahhah. I don't care. My only consolation for getting old is knowing my kids are growing and soon I can see my dreams in fruition. You see, as I always say, my success is defined ONLY by my kids' success. When they are done with school,  have a beautiful, peaceful and meaningful life. Then my job is done.

How about you? Do you go crazy with back to school shopping?  How important is education to your family? Are your kids more into sports or academics? Are you like me--- crazy in taking pictures of your kids? Please share.

Have a good evening folks.

School Promotions-June 2012

Well, as usual, these posts were meant to be for a few months ago. Lo and behold, I can not be the best blogger! Anyway, some of you may know, I lost a lot of my photos because my computer crashed. I am still looking for my lovely friends for their donation for a new computer----- LOL.

Anyway, the end of school year (gasp, I am talking about the end of school year in September?), was very eventful here at LlagaLand. Karmina is promoted to middle school. She was an honor student all the way! I am truly proud of KC. She is very hard working and focused. I know this year she will be more focused because she can not go to her planned Edmonton Canada and European trips ( France and London with my good friend Grace) if she does not have all A's with allowance for a B. She was also a part of the school play The Wizard of Oz--she was both a witch and a flower. This is her 3rd school play. She was Snow White in 4th grade and played a role in Velveteen Rabbit in the beginning of her 5th grade.

As always, I am truly proud of her. Aside from her honor roll certificate, she was also awarded Perfect Attendance. She excelled in swimming, joined track and field for the first time and she is part of the student council--the youngest member of the student council! What more can I ask?
 None.

KC receiving her Honor Roll certificate.

 My family. I love the boys' hair---don't tell.



Christopher/Pherry had his promotion to high school later in June. It was held at Tirrell Room in Quincy. That venue is beautiful! Seeing Pherry with all the 8th graders was so surreal. Is it really happening? I am going to have a high schooler? Wheeew, time really does fly. In 2001, he was just a crybaby in the airplane ride from Philippines to Boston. Throughout middle school, Pherry is in the AP class-Advance Placement. As such, he was always very busy.  He did not have any academic special award which did not surprise me because when he moved to middle school, he was acting like me when I moved to high school. I did not want to look like a dork so I focused on being under the radar---high grade is NOT cool. Nevertheless, he was " the walking encyclopedia" to his classmates and peers. Chris and I  need not talk about it but I know he was feeling so proud too. With 3 kids and  teenager in the house, we never had any major issues with the Three Little Monkeys. They are not into drugs, no bad friends, not too demanding of high priced items and I know they listen to me about being "responsible". So, as they were calling his name, I was near tears. I can not believe it! my eldest---my baby, my firstborn is going to high school! I know he's got big dreams---- that I know, and they are within his reach soon. AND no, I was not near tears becasue I was thinking of sky high college tuition---although, might as well be---I was truly near tears because even with me and Chris workign so many hours, he excelled. He won the citywide essay competion twice---3rd and second placer respectively, AP class all the way, excelled in swimming, always in his school's Lego Robotics competing team and I just got called to the principal's office once! What an achievement!

The proud parents.

The Llaga's of PE---my kids' cheering squad.

Pherry and some of his middle school buddies. I am sad because most of his friends went to North Quincy High. I could have sent him there but I like to adhere to the sentiment of my Tatang--- the students make the school and not the other way around.

So, yeah---I have a middle school beautiful girl and a very promising high school student.
My Three Little Monkeys are growing--- 9th, 6th and 4th graders!
Yes, I am ready.
Yes, it is scary.
But I know we can do this.
The environment and community may influence who we are, but I believe family is still the greatest and best influence of our lives.
No, I don't like to think about college tuition.
yes, they will have academic scholarchips.
Yes, they will ask for financial scholarships or loans.
Yes, I am sking them to stay close and not fly to the West Coast for schooling.
No, no boyfriends or girlfriends.
Period.

Anything is possible but I know my prayers will be answered---my kids will be safe and healthy, happy and responsible individuals and successful community members. My success happens ONLY when they are successful.

Lead me Lord.

Inspite of

... Life might get you. everything falls apart; family, health, career, friends and even when the simplest things in life is blown out of proportion--- when the rain is unstoppable and the sun is buried deep in the dark clouds-- when friends are nowhere in sight, when nothing seems to align, when whatever you say is wrong and when whenever you look harder there seems to be nothing. You get that? That feeling? I do. A whole lot. Lots of times.

But I don't cry- okay maybe I do-- a little. I may look messed up and unable to project a brave face but I always keep silent. It may seem unimaginable for me to keep silent but that's what I do. For in silence I know myself more. In silence, I can listen. Listen to my God and listen to my inner self.

In silence, I pray. A lot. Troubled hearts are always in prayer but even in times of joy, I pray.

Why am I telling you all this? Because if you are a long time reader of my blog, you know I seldom get emotional in this blog. But, I have been in pain. I have been praying too. I can't tell you why but i can tell you my heart needs to heal- to forgive. I was hurt so deep it's hard to forgive. There's just a few things that make me like this. I can't fathom in my heart to forgive just yet. I try to say I have, but in reality, I examine my soul and I have not. I trick myself too, making it believe it's no big deal blah blah blah, but who am I kidding?

In order to heal, you need to pass the stage of Hurting. In order to do that, you have to admit you are hurt. That's where my inner self is confused. I try to belittle my feelings telling me that I am a happy jovial person and not someone who can be hurt by anyone.

Needless to say, I have a journey to finish. A long one.

Update

much ado about nothing. It's official.... I hate my JOB!

can't blog
can't FB
can't tweet
can't can't can't can't!
See? I hate my job.

Being sarcastic here folks. Because I can't FB on my breaktime. Oh, wait. I don't have breaktime. I hate my job.

Please don't tell my boss. I love him. Indeed. When I grow up, I want to be like him. Patient, understanding and utterly stressed.

Just kidding. I am describing my imaginary job. You, know, full tiem blogger. When? Please. I need sponsors.

B

Call Me Maybe (crazy) part 2--USA SWIM TEAM

To continue our Olympic theme, remember that post  regarding the Harvard Baseball Team doing a cover of Call Me Maybe? Well, I thought that would be my favorite, but here yah go! Tell me which one you like better... Harvard Baseball Team or USA Swim Team? Do tell.

If you were wondering who I mam rooting for, it's Team Philippines! As I said, with our non-existent funding and  lack of formal sports program, I am so proud of these 11 althletes. Sana lang 'wag na sumama ang mga bwusit na 134 "officials". Hmmp! But yeah, here's USA Swim Team!

Philippine Contingent at the London Olympiad

Well, hello sports fans! That "mob" of press people focusing on the USA Men's basketball Team is crazy, huh? Oh well, it's the Dream Team of my generation, hahahhahah. 

Don't you just love their outfit? The "salakot" makes it! Designed by Rajo Laurel---made in the Philippines not CHINA!


Anyway, the Philippine contingent is the smallest since we started participaitng in 1932. Yes, only 11 athletes in 8 sports. In case you were curious, here are my "local" heroes. Everyone is rooting for Mark Barriga to give my beloved home country it's taste of the elusive Olympic gold. But you know what? I am still very proud. Considering our measly economy, non-existent sports funding---we are good! Go Philippines!

1. Mark Javier – Archery – Men’s individual


2. Rachel Cabral - Archery – Women’s individual

3. Rene Herrrera - Athletics (Men) – 3000 m steeplechase

4. Marestella Torres – Athletics (Women) – Long jump

5. Mark Barriga – Boxing – Light flyweight

6. Daniel Caluag - Cycling – Men’s BMX

7. Tomohiko Hoshina – Judo – Men’s +100 kg

8. Brian Rosario - Shooting – Skeet

9. Jessie Khing Lacuna – Swimming (Men) – 200 m freestyle

10. Jasmine Alkhaldi – Swimming (Women) – 100 m freestyle

11. Hidilyn Diaz - Weightlifting – Women’s -58 kg

Wishing at 0500H

Dear Pits,

I want these... I know. Nope, I love these. Nope. I need these. Like I need water and air.

 ...and just maybe, this lacey version of MAC, I truly need. Like I need love.

I know you understand my feelings.

Sincerely,
Your bag addicted Tita.

Disclosure: pics from Keiko Lynn.

Call Me Maybe crazy

I am a proud Bostonian!!! Sports? Check. Schools? Are you kidding? We have MIT and Harvard here. I can go on and on... but this is not what this post is about. It's about your overly-played-too-much-can-you-stop-playing-that-song Mr-DJ? Call Me Maybe.

It has sprouted so many parodies, some funny, some completely blaaah.....but here's my pe-bo-rit. AND no, it's not because I am from Boston but because they are completely hunks with oozing brain cells AND they are baseball players.Beat that! Ha?  Yeeh baby!



Not to be outdone, this ladies rowing team makes a good one too, in response to the Harvard Brainies. I think these 2 parodies are the best out there for Call Me Maybe. Not that I know. I don't stay on the internet you know. Right? Hahahhaha.



Whatyahdoing? Go make your own video. Pronto!

Happy Saturday ppeps. Keep smiling, the world is beautiful inspite of...

First Blog Award

How are you? Rainy and gloomy here in Boston MA----home of Harvard, MIT and the Celtics! Hahhahah. Just rubbing it in!

Anyway highway, I have been blogging since ... forever? Blogging was not even popular to regular people. I love writing and reading so, I just write things, as mundane as my great hatred for people with dandruff  to my great passion towards loyalty.

I never participated in blog exchange and awards but this blogging award I am willing to take!
One Lovely Blog Award!

I was nominated by my university instructor Miss Nova Aida Cajucom  at littleprince68 who blogs about her passion in DIY, her beautiful family and very inspiring home tips. So go ahead and visit her lovely blog and you will see why she is one (if not THE) of the favorite teachers in my school.


So when one gets these awards, first you have to mention who nominated you and link back. Also, you have to say 7 things about yourself and finally, you get to nominate 15 bloggers to receive these wonderful awards. So, I’ve done the first one so we proceed to the second one:



7 Things about myself:

1. I talk a lot. A whole lot. I love to explain things in detail.

2. I have good memory of events, that is. Bad memory in names.


3. I hate dandruff. Nuff said.

4. I am a trying hard, desperate ever so bad singer and dancer. But I try. Sorry.

5. I can be fully made up today and super dressed down tomorrow. So what? I am a wife, a mother of 3 and full time career woman.

6. I am not good at any sports but I am a HUGE sports fan. You can have me on your team and all you need is ME to cheer for you.


7. My bag collection is ridiculous. No Hermes though.
My nominees are:

1. Doc Vel at http://buhayatbahay.blogspot.com/

2. Daphne Osena Paez at http://daphne.ph/

3. Noemi at http://aboutmyrecovery.com/
I cant think of more.

Thank you Miss Nova and go chekc my nominated blogs peeps! Happy Saturday to all.

Monday Brag Day

Just like KC, Joshua is chosen as one of the Peer Leaders in his school for the coming school year. Guess who's so proud in the Fall? Me!

I can not be any more proud! Mr. Hubs and I have been so proud every time parents or teachers tell us how good mannered and academically inclined our kids are.

I live for these days! I love you Josh!

Care to share a "brag" for Monday?

All worth it

Night shift, double shift? Whatever shi*t life brings, at the end of the day, it's all worth it! The aching back, the sore feet, the shaky legs and sucky headaches--- gone!

Happy Sunday everyone!