Christmas In Our House 2015

It's the most wonderful time of the year again. December knocks so fast at our doorsteps and it's already here. So for this year, we decorated our home as we celebrate the spirit of Christmas looking like this...

This Christmas tree is in its second year with us.
Since we have a small space, we put it on top of our side table.
This tree is not that heavy so not a problem that the table might give way.
Those stuff toys are already placed there and since we don't have
Christmas base cover, we used them to cover it. Nice idea too!

When we still don't have Christmas tree, this wreath garland is the focal point of my Christmas decoration at home. It's still a work in progress as some of my old Christmas balls were detached from its string. I might buy new balls or any decor that would fit in with the wreath.  I thought of this because of the minimal space that we have. I decorated it with lights, hanged balls or any Christmas decor that is usually put in a Christmas Tree. Since we have a lot of stuff toys, I make use of it as decors because if by keeping it, it would just accumulate dust.  

      I got these Christmas stockings from Watsons. It is priced at Php57.00 each.

      The Sales Lady told me it's marked down from the original price of Php99.00 each.

      I've been looking for the longest time a Christmas stocking that is of good quality

      and so happy to have finally saw one. I'm still planning to put letters on the green-
      colored space with names of my two kids for a more personalized look.

Most of my Christmas decorations this year are already used from previous Christmases. Only these two Christmas stockings and additional Christmas LED lights are my purchases for this year. My kids are happy with what I put up. After all, Christmas is for the children and for the kid-at-heart.

Happy Holidays everyone!

Our "New" Second-Hand Ride

I'm not a sporty person, though I'd love sana how to play tennis. Too much exposure to Mr. Sun discouraged me to engage on it. But I'm glad that at an early age I was so eager to learn and eventually know how to ride a bicycle. I learned on my own and those bruises that I got was all worth it. My uncle used to have a BMX bike when I was in grade school. Whenever he is not using it, I sneak into our tiny garage and practice until I get tired. I cannot remember when was the last time I rode in one. My eldest daughter kasi loves to have a bicycle maybe because she saw her friends in our neighborhood driving around with their own bicycles. Yung kind na like this...

Mala- 'Lovers in Paris'. It's so dreamy, right? (Photo NOT mine)

My husband and I are actually planning to buy her a new bicycle because the old one is already too small for her. That now is the one my 3-year old girl is using. 

 

We scouted for it in malls but we are having second thoughts getting one because: (1) it's a bit expensive and (2) we cannot attest of its longevity. We then heard that buying in Japan surplus shops saves us a lot of money and we get more of our money's worth. Not to mention it's durability and quality-tested. So we check out some shops here in the city and found nga not only one but two bicycles. The second one is for me. I'm so happy I own one now even if it's pre-owned.

Here is my girl's bike. 

It's only Php1,800.00 and I tell you, it's so sturdy 
though there are a few scratches and minor dents noticed. 
But it's in a very good condition. 

Just a few flaws were there like the LED lights isn't working though we can just replace the defective bulb and it will light na. The other grip has a rip but the other one is still in good condition so we just leave it as it is. The plastic basket have only minimal cracks and dents and stains but it doesn't matter. There are also minor rusts seen but we can have it repainted and it's good as new. We just bought an extension tires (at Php300.00) at the back since she cannot balance yet with just a two-wheel. Before that there was a bicycle stand attached to it but it was removed to replace the extension tires.

We can really attest of its durability and quality because the bicycle itself is heavy. It's like I'm having lifts every time I carry it. The bell and brakes works perfectly. The seat cover is in nice condition (not dirty) and durable. The paint finish is totally fine. The height of the seat can be adjusted. I can even ride on it. 

And now presenting to you my bicycle. 
Guys would you believe its worth is only Php1,800.00?! Sure steal!
But we got it for 2,500.00. Why? Everything is in superb condition 
and it's a reserved item. Meaning 'may nagmamay-ari na'. 
My husband haggled for it and wants it so badly for me.

He didn't mind paying for that amount because of the following reasons:

- the seat is leather, just a few (almost invisible) blemishes

- the LED lights, bell and brakes working perfectly fine

- there are just minor scratches, stains and rust

- almost no dents

- adjustable seat
- it has a lock/key attached to the back wheel that secures it and nobody can use it except me. Though I don't lock it so the nanny can use it to accompany my kids when biking around the village

- the paint finishes is fine (off white/chocolate color, yum!)

- the steel basket is love

- I love also that it has a bicycle stand

Overall, I love my Japan surplus/pre-owned bicycles we got. We saved a lot for the cost we bought given of the quality of the bikes. We can just have it groomed some other time if we really want that spunky/new feel of it. For the meantime, we love as it is. My hubby told me it's his Christmas gift to me. It doesn't matter if it's not new as long as I am loving it. He's planning to buy one for him and our youngest. And it'll be a family sport we'll be engaging in. How I love it! Thank you Lord for the blessing!

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

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

Oh yeah! The happiest time of the year is soon to kick off a few days from now. 

A sneak peek of our first ever Christmas Tree at 6-feet tall.
Would you believe I got this for only P350.00? I kid you not!
Head on to Unitop... (Pardon for the blurry photo. It's the closest
I got that my daughter -her photo below- randomly took.)

The merriest decorations in these season are always in the malls.
So last Tuesday, we went for a dinner at the GMall Toril. Not only my kids
are having much fun but me as well as I see this decorated atrium full
of Christmas butingtings for sale fit for home decor!

Oh, this one is from Selfridges (London) where we had our month long vacation
last month. Their Christmas decoration is not only "Christmas-sy"
but very festive as well. Look at those paper "banderitas" (shall I call it that?).
Parang fiesta lang din...

But unlike the previous holidays, I felt that it isn't as merry as before. I felt that there are a lot of downside events (be it in politics, society, finances and even in show business...) in our country that affects my mood in feeling the spirit of the season. But nevertheless, as always and every year, I am grateful for the year that transpired. Because God has never left our side. I am praying for good health, provision for me and my loved ones, safety and protection from the Almighty God. And that He provided it all (not to mention the London vacation trip He allowed to happen). Despite some mishaps, it never is a hindrance to be thankful of the life He continues to bless me. Seeing my loved ones in tip top shape everyday and an out pour of blessings in all sorts are reasons to be in gratitude always.

'Tis the season to be jolly. Fa,la, la, la, la, la, la, la, la.... Happy Holidays everyone!

"Ber"-ry Excited for the Holiday Season

September steps in and for us Filipinos, the long holiday season and celebration countdown begins. Yesterday we went mall-ing with the family, and the National Bookstore branch in SM City Davao has displayed Christmas decors and trees already. As a child and up till now, the Christmas season always bring delight and cheer to my heart like a kid. It never fades. It always amazes me. Maybe because we had the best Christmas celebrations my parents and family had contributed in me. I will see to it that my kids will experience the same or more joy and excitement I had. More than the celebration, the material gifts, the sumptuous food, the abundance of everything, I'll make sure that they will know the spirit of what Christmas brings: The joy and love when shared with the loved ones, reuniting with so much laughter and merriment around not any material thing could ever replace. 

Right now, I'm tuned in with Christmas songs playing in my computer here in the office. It feels so relaxing, pampa good vibes and just to bring a smile on my face on a Monday morning. And so I greet you Merry Christmas everyone! #Mondaymantra #Christmasgreetings2014 #holidayseasonishere

Party Planning + Party Suppliers = One Fabulous Party

I always enjoy things related to arts and crafts, DIY in party events. I am very fond and passionate about the details and the preparation itself though it could be stressful yet challenging and fulfilling. Every time there's invitation to these, I'll make it a point not to miss the said gathering. I feel happy seeing details embodied in the party itself. From the invitation card, to the theme, the cake, giveaways, the food and the party venue itself. It adds more jazz and excitement to the merriment when everything is dolled up. Weddings, birthdays, baptismal events are nice avenue for showcasing one's creativity.

In times like this, I go to party suppliers because it's already a one stop shop. You need not go from one place to another in order to find what you need. In today's generation, online buying or shopping gives one a lot of convenience. It saves time and energy plus you have a wide variety of items to choose from. Party decorations, favors and ideas for all sorts of event like 50th Anniversary Decorations, Bridal/Engagement Party Decorations, themed-birthday party, baby shower, baptismal, bachelorette, wedding or even Christmas, Valentines, graduation and prom events, a party supplier can cater these to you hassle-free. What's good about having a party supplier is that you can choose the items yourself and make your dream party a reality. #partysupplier #partydecorations

Christmas Holidays 2013 and the New Year 2014

This has been the longest I have not aired anything in my blog. It's been disappointing to me because my page rank moved down to 1 from the previous 2. But nevertheless the holidays brought so much joy, realizations and a breath of hope for the coming year to me that is fulfilling and incomparable. It's been a roller coaster ride for me and everything in that span of 2 weeks it's like I was pressed fast forward that at the end of the day it is just too tiring yet fulfilled looking back my activities for the day. For one, both my helpers at home were in holidays too. We decided to let them go and celebrate the holidays with their loved ones back in their respective province. Most of the people would say why we allowed it. It would be too difficult in our part because of manning the kids. Who would help us take care of them and doing the household chores. If I think of it, it's not a good idea really because it's physically and emotionally draining. But somehow, a part of me and that I was accustomed to growing up, being with the family at Christmas and the New Year is the best time to be with the loved ones. I grew up loving the holidays because it's merry-making and reunion time with my family and relatives especially that some of my relatives are living outside Davao City and it's always the season I am looking forward to coming until now that I have my own children to enjoy the joy I experienced. I want my helpers to experience the same thing because they are still young and we don't want to deprive the same happy feeling even if their own families has different stories to tell; for one they have broken families. They celebrate Christmas with their families with their relatives. And second, it's the only time of the year they get to go home except if there are emergencies back home. I got so many stories to tell about their holidays which they share with us when they got back from their long vacation. From their stories, I realized I feel blessed to have a complete family even if it is not perfect. I feel lucky that my parents let us experience the best holiday celebration materially, emotionally and spiritually. I feel blessed because we are able to buy the stuff we need and want. I feel blessed because my family is in good shape. I feel blessed and fulfilled because spending every single day with my children is worth the time despite being tired of looking after them. It is at that moment where I got to enjoy fully my kids and no mama is going to work. That is what my almost 3 year old daughter told me, mama office? And most importantly, I feel blessed because I am able to give back to others the blessings that I receive for the year it was. Christmas is a time for giving, sharing, thanksgiving and being with the company of loved ones.

For this new year, I am hoping for more positive and good things to happen than the negative or bad ones. I still pray and wish for goodness of health especially that at the beginning of this new year, my two kids are down with flu and fever. I still wish the two of them well. They are under medication now and hopefully the fever they are getting is due to flu and not because of anything worst like dengue. Third, I pray and wish for prosperity. Fourth, I pray and wish that God will protect my marriage and my family from harm and bad elements. Fifth, may we continue having good friendships and find new ones like what happened to me and @mommyjuvs. She's a warm person not to mention she is really beautiful in the outside. I'll make another post for our first time meet-up. I'll look forward for your coming back here hopefully with your family. And lastly, I pray and wish for a good year for my blog, whatever it will be.

I wish and pray the same things to you my fellow bloggers. Let's get some good kick as we enter this year 2014. May this year will be another reason to be thankful for. #goodvibes #happynewyear2014 #Godblessus

Christmas Gift 2013: Mothercare

Now that I became a mom, I'm more tempted to buy stuff for my little ones rather than for myself. Even if I have to badly update my current wardrobe for a long time already, I always end up buying for my kids. Maybe, I've come to be a mature buyer and the mother in me exceeds more than anything else. When it comes to looking stuff for my kids my go to stores are in SM malls and Mothercare. I love the selection of clothes from SM not only for my girls but they have my sizes too. That's the advantage of having a petite frame. Last Tuesday, I visited the Ayala Abreeza mall branch of Mothercare and got this pair for my little girl. What I love about Mothercare is that their SALE is all year round. It doesn't need to have special events in order for this heavenly store to have discounts on their items.

A size 10 for my almost 3 year old daughter. Sorry for a dirty image.
Blame it on my cellphone camera's pixels and poor lighting.

I love the rugged style. It's like a converse. The soles are really good.

You might wonder why a got a blue color for my daughter. Why not? It's the only stock left so I grabbed without second thoughts. You would really not pass this because it is just P300.00 pesos from the original price of P999.00 pesos.

I also got a 2-piece shorts for 5-7 year old boy for only P300.00 pesos from the original price of P799.00. Such a steal! #mothercare #smmalls #kidsfashion

Bazaar, Sales & Me

Being silent for a week here doesn't make me one happy person. It feels like I've been out of this world for like months and have not been informed of what's the latest. I feel the rants of fellow bloggers after endless apologies of not being able to write for how many days. Now, that's how it felt.

So what I am up to for the past week? Well, I've been busy with work-related concerns. Now that Christmas draws near, I am also in the mood for shopping for gifts to give. A lot of SALE and discounts happening in every malls here in the city not to include bazaars that I went up to. Not to mention that some malls have 2 day midnight sales and it's quite a festive city for these past few days now. Last weekend, I went to a Christmas bazaar held in Davao Convention Center. I saw a lot of great stuffs and end up buying some. I bought a blouse, leggings and espadrilles for myself which cost me P500.00 pesos only. I bought my daughter a blouse and leggings too equivalent to P180.00 pesos and both are imported brands which still has tag. I also bought gifts for my loved ones all at reasonably priced items. These stuffs I bought are not cheap in materials. But they are sturdy and of good quality. I love bazaars especially this particular Christmas bazaar which is usually held every last week of November. I can see all finds that department stores sell in a much higher cost. Or we can't even see in stores locally. Some are imported brands that cost less.

I also went to Gaisano Grand Toril last Sunday with my family. Before we went for grocery, we headed first to their department store. We saw lots of great gift ideas that are affordable but of good quality. We love it there since it's not very crowded and its like we lazily shop there. No pressure as we don't have to fall in line for long as cashiers are catering to a few customers only. I'm planning to go back there to buy more. I'm not yet done shopping (tehee!). It's great to shop for others and what's more interesting is I got to scout for good gift ideas even if I don't have enough cash yet. At least I know where to go as soon as I have the money. I also heard that Gaisano Mall in Toril has great selection of finds also in their department store. There are a lot of sale items in good condition. Sadly, we weren't able to go there due to some feedback that it is still dusty and the paint is still smelly which I think is not good for my kids. The building is still undergoing construction and the only open stores at the moment is their supermarket and department stores. We are looking forward to the opening of more stores in the mall as what my officemate said, the place is big and "sosyal". It has its own "walkator" similar to that of SM Lanang Premier. Hence, we are scheduling to visit there a couple of days more.

I love that malls are sprouting near our area and we don't have to go too far just to be able to leisurely spend time in malls. I love going to malls and my hubby can attest to that. #shopping #malls #bazaaar

It's the Season to be Jolly

Oh my! It's exactly a month to go and Christmas day is finally here. Here, there and everywhere we see Christmas decorations that makes me giddy like a child. How much more for my kids. How could you not love everything sparkling, colorful, vibrant and merry?

Last Saturday, I had the chance to visit SM Lanang Premier together with my parents and my kids. I already booked my father 3 days in advance to drive us there for the main reason of seeing the tallest Christmas tree in Mindanao standing at 57 feet tall. Well of course, I'd love my kids to see for themselves and shock with delight this gigantic display of lights and the water fountain at the back of SM. Indeed, my eldest cannot contain her excitement as she stare in amazement for a few minutes and running around the area with so much energy and glee. While my 1 year old daughter just stared on the gleaming lights and I'm sure she was stunned with what she saw.

How could you not be delighted of this thing? It's towering height stands just exactly so right to make one in awe and savor the Christmas spirit which is just around the corner. Being in this area, makes me still for awhile, enjoy watching Christmas shoppers roaming around and just feel at ease with the beauty of this tree nestled in the center of everybody's commotion.

I love Christmas in malls! Everything is inviting. 

I didn't expect that it'll look like this. I'm proud of my captured photo on the tallest Christmas tree. Every inch and corner captivates merriment. Be sure to catch and take a look at this huge tree this Christmas time only at SM Lanang Premier in Davao City. Isn't it glorious? #christmas2013 #feelingblessed

#TBT: Snail Mailing

LATE POST. It's better late than never.

I wouldn't hold this for so long. Not until next Thursday. I've been busy this week preparing to send out Christmas cards from my boss for his business associates, friends and relatives here and abroad. And I'm very ecstatic about it since in today's age, we are very much equipped with technologies that means faster delivery of communication and service. Sending letters and cards in a traditional way have decreased over the years and the faster way to send greetings is by electronic mail like e-cards and text message or a personal call are great options. In a matter of seconds, not even a minute, we can relay messages in an instant. Thanks to the world wide web, cellular phones, telephones, laptops/computers and the digital era. It makes life much accessible, effortless, environment friendly (paperless), fast and convenient. I couldn't imagine if we still live in a turtle-like pace.

However, I miss those times that we make personal notes whether through a card or a letter. I see it as something special, unique, made out of love and with so much affection and emotion to it. It still has a sentimental value for me receiving stuffs like that. Till this very day, I still keep those personal notes (letters or cards) that I've received before from loved ones. I actually get "kilig" all over again reading those letters/ cards I got from suitors (hahaha... dead me!). Seriously, it makes me reminisce beautiful feelings of importance and appreciation by reading those written notes especially made for you.

Every year, we always support Hallmark cards in their vision of L.I.F.E. (which stand for Leukemic Indigents Fund Endowment). For every order we get from their catalogue of cards, we helped in their vision by helping cancer patients. See photos below their 2013 collection catalogue.

For this year, we chose this design. Isn't it cute?

For many years now, we've supported Hallmark not only because they've been supporting for a cause but because the quality of their cards is very good and note worthy. They use thick cardboard for their cards and the material is glossy finish on the outer and a matte texture inside. They use a separate sheet for the message which you can personalize. For us, I asked them not to paste on the separate sheet so I can still add details on the card and print it by myself. However you can request them to have it glued it on the card itself. Minimum order they have is 100 cards. #Hallmarkcards #seasonsgreetings2013 #wellwishes

Nothing beats the traditional way. What do you think?

I SEEKed THE UNIQ for Christmas

I have a few weeks left to do some Christmas shopping to give for my loved ones. It's no easy task to think and look for gifts especially if it is for someone dearest and special to you, right? Everytime Christmas comes, I always rush in buying presents and joining in the mad crowd. It's so tiring and stressing plus you could not think of better ideas. I end up not buying the right thing for the specific person though not always all the time. Good thing that online shopping is the way to go nowadays and I find it very convenient and accessible. I came across Ms. Daphne's blog here and I got interested. I've never been so much of a cologne or perfume person. All that I have are gifts given to me. So for a change, I want to give scents this Christmas. It would be hard to give on clothes, bags, shorts and all the basic stuff because they already have it. Getting online with these purchase excites me more as I went into Seek the Uniq's website here. Here's my ordered items.

My orders are safely packed in a very "Uniq" way. I love that it is very personalized.

These are for me (Left: Eau de Cologne) and for my kids (Right: anti-mosquito baby cologne)

I wouldn't divulge on what's inside the package because it contained the gifts that I'll be giving. I won't spoil the surprise. Their scents are from France so I'm getting a good buy for an affordable price. It's not cheap in quality and the scents indeed is not overpowering and stinging to the nose. Very light, fresh and heavenly! Definitely one "uniq" find. #christmasgift #vanity #scents

Our Merry Christmas Home Decor

Despite the massive destruction of Yolanda which brought the entire world in mourning, I want to pave way to uplift the Christmas spirit mood to each one. It is not yet the end of the world guys. It is great to know that we are still blessed and alive after that devastating tragedy. There's no reason to be sad for us who were spared off by the weather disturbance. I know, we couldn't help but feel at lost and affected too. But instead of wallowing on what happened, we should reflect and show to them somehow that after the storm, a new beginning and brighter tomorrow is in store for us.


So moving on to a merrier side. I made our home as "Christmas-y" as I could by setting up Christmas garland in our living area. This serves as our own Christmas tree since it will not take so much space from our small area. It's less hassle also when it's time to fix and keep. It's been 3 Christmases that we've used this and so far until now it's still in good shape. I just added and mix up decors to make it something new. For this year, I changed it to LED multi-colored lights that blinks in series. Before it was just a warm single-colored steady lighting. Now, my kids love it because it blinks and it's more colorful.

Without fluorescent light.

Now with fluorescent light.

I put Christmas hats at our bedroom doors instead of the usual stockings.

I've been thinking that maybe it's high time that we put a little Christmas tree. I'm sure the kids would love to look at it and experience having the tree as one of the symbol for Christmas. I'm just doubtful that they may end destroying it by always tinkering it. Well, let us see. I found affordable slim Christmas tree about 5 feet tall at SM Department store for only P500.00. That's really a steal.

Leaving you some thoughts to reflect upon. I came across from my FB newsfeed yesterday about a prophecy for the Philippines. I was moved, delighted and hopeful that God moves in mysterious ways; for ways we cannot explain and fathom. He moves greatly and with all His might for our better tomorrow. See clip below:

Post by Kwento mo kay ART Samson.

Overwhelming Christmas Spirit

Ever since I was a kid, the most anticipated season for me aside from summer and my birthday is Christmas. I don't know why but the rush of excitement, merriment and happy feeling is there overflowing within me. They say Christmas is for the children. But I say it is for young and adults alike. Up until now, when I see decorated houses and establishments, I can feel the air of joy transmitted to each and everyone. When exchanges of Christmas greetings are said, I feel warmth and calmness. It is indeed true that the spirit of Christmas is more than just the material things sprawled in front of us where there is abundance. It is found within us because it's Jesus and it's all about him why we celebrate the most merriest time of the year. I give credits to my parents as well because they made our Christmases a season to celebrate, be happy and a season for thanksgiving. They made us believe and experience Santa Claus, Christmas trees, Christmas stockings, exchange gifts, Christmas carols and songs, Christmas shopping, malls, vacation, reunions, feasting with family, relatives and friends. Those are fondest memories of my holidays and it feels so good being around with these things, events and people.

Oh yes! I still giddy thinking of those until now but growing up, I find the essence of Christmas more meaningful than what I have in mind. It is more on giving happiness to others, sharing to others, wishing well for others and thanksgiving. More on that material stuff, what's more important is the one that cannot be found visible to the eyes but it is where we find happiness and goodness in our own midst. I wish that people would have this thinking everyday that everyday is Christmas. Lakas maka #goodvibes and you can't find bad blood to each other; everyone exchanging good words to each other and good wishes for the season. Even friend-nemies take a break and just be merry. Ang saya isipin na ganito na lang lagi ang mentality ng tao so that everybody happy. Wish ko lang! So to you guys, let us make this season a wonderful time to celebrate with our loved ones and share blessings.

Photo NOT mine.

Before ending my post, a tropical storm is set to hit our country in a couple of hours now. Aside from preparing for our needs and precautions heightened, please arm yourselves with prayers that no massive destruction will take place and that God will shield us from harm. We pray that God will give us this gift of safety and protection in time for Christmas. May God bless our country, Philippines! Stay safe everyone.

Holidays and the Panic-buying mode

The long weekend is over and the right moment to start looking forward to the Christmas season after the much anticipated Halloween and Trick or Treat celebrations is already here. Traditionally, Halloween and Trick or Treat events is not very much celebrated here in our country.  Unlike in other countries, here in the Philippines, it is more on commemorating our departed ones who have gone ahead of us. It is normally celebrated by going to the cemetery where they are buried and offer prayers for them. Now that I have my own kids, I enjoy the Trick or Treat celebrations that is widely and is starting to kick off here in the Philippines. I'm now looking forward to every Halloween celebrations because it makes the kids happy by just getting treats and by dressing very cute and not so scary costumes for the little ones.

Anyways, have you started to decorate your homes for the Yuletide season? For me, I haven't done it yet. I'm looking forward to decorating this weekend. For our household, we decided not to put up yet a Christmas tree mainly because my kids are still in their toddler years. The tree might end up dismantled or out of form before the Christmas time approaches. So to spruce up and feel the spirit of Christmas, I just put decorative Christmas pieces like socks and hats at our bedroom door and put a Christmas wreath in our living area adorned with lights and decors. It still is very nice and it won't occupy space in our little abode. Another thing that I'm looking forward too, excites me the most and adds a little pressure on me is 'shopping for the holidays' bring. Not so much of a bad pressure because shopping is No stressful (I enjoy and LOVE the 'stress' it brings) unless it's a hurried one and you don't have any idea on what to give. I know you're feeling the same as mine. Thinking of stuff to give for this particular person is definitely one brain wrecking thing especially if you do the holiday shopping rush. Not only this brings a head ache and body aches (you know what I mean) but more so on the time wasted and the unnecessary spending it entails. So to make it easier for me, as early as now (for some they made a little shopping as early as October), I made a list on who to give and what to give. That's my first step. It eases me a bit seeing my list because I categorized it. I started with the immediate family, relatives and friends. I have ideas in mind what to give for some even if I haven't completed it yet. But that's okay at least, I won't be cramming that much. By doing this, you'll have a smooth shopping spree and it won't waste your time looking for what item to give. It's easier, faster and convenient when you know what items to buy. Another shopping option is purchasing online. This is very easy, reliable, convenient and stress-free because you just select what item to buy right in your own nest. Actually, I just ordered na for Christmas presents (hehehe). It's also good to buy in bulk so you can make use of the flat rate in shipping fee for a number of items already. I'm so excited for the real shopping experience to happen. For an employee like me, the partial 13th month pay is in less than 15 days from now. I'm sure the malls are packed by that time for Christmas shopping and some are have a 'sale' going on.

I'm not in a panic mode now. But the buying I guess is still panicky. Crossing my fingers that I'd be able to fully complete my Christmas gift shopping before December starts. How about you guys, have you started to shop for Christmas? If yes, where can you recommend good, affordable buying sites (may it be online or shops) that sells Christmas gift items for all ages? Please do share. From my family to yours, Merry Christmas and a Happy and Blessed New Year ahead!