As the year 2014 ends, let me welcome 2015 (the year of the sheep)

My long absence speaks for itself. It's Christmas and a lot of merry-making that kept me busy and silent here in my blog. I'm so thrilled for the coming year yet looking back and reminiscing the year that was. 2014 for me has been a marvelous one full of surprises and blessings (in small and big packages) that was least expected. And I'm so overjoyed, grateful for the year not only for the opportunities, experiences, material/financial things that has given to me and my family but also for the people that God let me encounter. In one way or another, it has its share of lows but in general it has been good and gratifying because it's more on the positive rather than the opposite.

I am looking forward to the coming year 2015 because it will be my year. I am born in the year 1979 and 2015 will be the year of the sheep. As Pope Francis said he is hopeful that the coming year will be full of tenderness and peace as what the character traits of a sheep are. What I'll be more cautious this start of the year and I will be taking care more of is my health. I promise to see my OB-Gyne for a pap smear (it is already due almost 4 years ago). I haven't seen my OB-Gyne doctor after my second pregnancy last 2012 and a pap smear is a must and due. My latest annual executive physical check-up result is not okay. My uric acid and creatinine levels showed high range values above the normal range. Three months ago my blood pressure level went up too (not my normal reading) and my IM (Internal medicine) doctor gave me medicine just in case my blood pressure will shoot up again. I'm not in the stage yet that I'm doing it as a maintenance medicine (God forbids). But so far, the result of my bad cholesterol is positive and okay. I won't take any chances. It is better to be safe and early detection is really a cure. I really wish that I am okay and I will be more cautious now in my lifestyle and make it healthier not only for myself but for my family most especially for my two girls.

I wish the same for you my fellow bloggers that we keep ourselves healthy for a longer life, longer journey to enjoy life more and experience God's gifts in different ways. Good health is the best gift we can give to ourselves. I wish you prosperous new year and a fruitful 2015 ahead. Till next year guys...ciao!

Owning a #CathKidston: The loooong wait is over!

Bringing London's Cath Kidston here in the Philippines is one brilliant idea. I couldn't contain my giddy and excitement when I first saw and read it at Ms. Daphne and then at Ms. Leah's blog when its first store in the Philippines opened to the public on December 6 in Manila at Bonifacio Global area in Taguig.


About 3 to 4 years ago, my SIL brought me my first Cath Kidston bag. That time, I never had any idea of the brand name when in fact it's been in the business since 1993 but only in London. Since then, I've been hearing and reading articles from lifestyle and mommy bloggers and later on became one of my favorite items too. Funny thing is one time, when I happen to visit a Divisoria-like store here in Davao City, I saw Cath Kidston-inspired merchandise (of course not the authentic ones)! So it really is popular already here.


Our recent trip to London a month ago (see link here), gave me an idea of how popular and a staple to every Londoner Cath Kidston bags are in particular. Visiting their shops there makes me feel like a child, drooling and envying every item they have in store. Not only I am wishing to get myself to have one but also for my little girls. But it all fade away after the generous SIL I have gave me this as the latest design Cath Kidston has released in the market. 

The London bus design of bag and a card/paper bill holder.
The newest design they introduced in the market.

How it looks in the inside of the card/paper bill holder.

The bag. You can snap it or not on the sides.

Unlike the regular inside or back zip pockets,
for this design it is located in front.  

See how roomy this bag is.

I also own a booklet of labels and stickers to which my SIL also gave me in summer this year. I use this when I send gifts in any occasion.

What I love about Cath Kidston bag in particular aside from the design and style, durability and versatility, is its texture. The bags that I own are made of water-proof materials that when it rains or accidentally something spills on it, I can just easily wipe it and not afraid of getting it stained or ruined. 

So to all Cath Kidston fanatics out there, I feel for you. A look of their trademark design alone can give thrill and chills to ones spine. It's something only a girl can understand. Looking forward to my next Cath Kidston possession. Anyway, it's Christmas!

Our 350-peso worth 6-feet Christmas Tree

Wondered where on Earth we acquired and purchased this very affordable tree? Where else but in Unitop! I've decided to put up a Christmas tree since the kids are big enough to appreciate the beauty and identity of it. What is Christmas anyway without the tree, or any sparkling lights and colorful decor to go with? 

Our Christmas 2014

Isn't it neat and DIY-ish? My decorations are the old ones that we have.
Since the actual location is where we put the stuffed toys of my kids,
I didn't get it but still designed it to be the cover of the tree base.
I'm so delighted of how it turned out a very creative idea! Isn't it?

Last year and the past 3 years ago, I just decorate our house with a Christmas garland and decorated it with Christmas balls, other Christmas accent and lights (like in the photo below).

Our Christmas 2011 until 2013

It looks like plain and simple in the photo because I captured it in
broad daylight. But when it's lit at night, it is beautiful to look at.
I thought of putting like this before because when I put a tree,
my little ones may play on the decors and lights of the tree
when its near their reach. But now, no more.

But whatever it is, it's nice to feel the spirit of Christmas with decorated surroundings. It adds to the 'feel' of what the season brings. Most importantly, Christmas are for kids and for kids-at-heart. I've been a kid and when the 'ber' months come, we excitedly bug our parents to decorate the house with everything 'Christmas-sy'. It's the spirit of this season that bring warmth and joy to one's heart and associate Christmas with merry-making and cheers to everyone. #christmastree #christmasdecors #christmasDIY