The Weeks That Were

Forewarn: There's no photos ahead. It's all words. So I hope you bear with me as I was just unloading baggage to release me and make me feel better. Nevertheless, it's not an intention on the other hand to pass it on to you as I don't wish you feel the same way as I do.


I'm all out of words, nothing to say. But my mind is full of stories to tell and concerns to address. I'm full packed now. Maybe I'm just all too stressed out thinking on things that I have in mind. I'm making paramdam here because it's almost 1 month after my last blog post. But I am grateful and thankful to those who stumble across my blog and patiently and took their time reading it. I know there are people reading here because of my ranking that is actively moving in numbers. Yehey to that!

Okay what keeps me busy from the past few weeks? Let me enumerate it because I too lost track. More than two weeks ago, both my kids were down with flu and hit with fever. My 3 year old's temperature went up to 40. I got scared. I brought them to their Pedia and antibiotics were prescribed. Oh gosh! The thought of that makes me weak. For one, my kids and I have a hate-relationship especially the youngest whenever taking in antibiotics. She dislike its pungent taste (yes, I tasted it) and in full force, with all our joined forces, we really and literally hold her like someone has to hold her feet, her hands and her head just to give her that 5ml dose otherwise she wouldn't take it or worst spit it. I couldn't afford to see my kids fighting with all their might, screaming and struggling for a dose of that medicine. It's not only stressful to us but more so to the kids. Second, antibiotics are expensive prescribed drugs and it's the last thing I would want them to ingest in their system. Besides that, I noticed from my youngest daughter rashes from her legs spreading to the body and arms which became more profound and itchy, to which the doctor told us is just heat rashes. I never mind for the first three days of medication thinking that the antibiotics he gave to my daughter is not only for the phlegm but for the skin infection/rashes (I read in the leaflet of the medicine) she had. I thought it may be the effect that the rashes gradually is coming out and because of the heat. On the 8th day, I sensed that it is not already the normal rashes though she don't have fever anymore. It's more bigger, itchy and red. So I went back to the doctor and blurted out measles! I got worried right away because she already had contact with my eldest daughter and what if she might get the virus? Luckily and thank God I can see no signs of rashes from Mariella since then. So I packed the things of my dear one and send her for the meantime in my parental's house in order not to pass on infection to the sister. We're missing her already. It's been a week of not seeing her and only talk to her daily through the phone as I speak. 

Another thing that keeps my motherhood so alive in between those happenings is I crammed for my eldest daughter's projects in school. Create an Alphabet book and using recyclable materials, make an illustration of a human body parts. After all the sleepless nights and the worries, I still manage to think of it overnight to be submitted on the next day which is 2 days late already. During the medication of Mariella, I didn't send her to school so not to infect her classmates thus the delay of her project's submission. The pictures of the Alphabet Book, I slowly collected it days before. But finishing everything was done overnight. Then there were school requirements to be bought for their 2nd Annual Family Day at school which was held last Sunday which was a whole day event and this week is there examination. I thank God still because it was a long weekend where I got to take time and rest a bit.

Have you guys watched the movie 'The Love Affair'? I am in awe of Dawn Zulueta's timeless and ageless beauty. Richard Gomez charisma is still undoubtedly remained despite her age. Kinikilig ako sa kanilang dalawa ni Dawn in the roles they played. And Bea Alonzo, very beautiful, fresh and she's very flawless. I was affected by the story because I can relate to it and it brought back bitter memories. I watched the movie together with my husband and I don't know what effect it had on him. But I'm certain that he can relate to it as well. No discussions done after because my eyes are all red when I came out of the cinema. My eldest daughter asked after if I cried. Of course, I couldn't lie because it's all over my face. We just laughed it off!

I'm not yet through. Work-wise it's manageable and it helps that my boss is very considerate. But what pisses me off are  people who are taking advantage of the opportunity that their favors are granted almost all the time and that they couldn't help asking for more. They are not yet satisfied of the help they are getting and I feel that they are making that generous person like a milking cow for their own needs. I know for a fact what they are asking help for because I'm also a mother. But I hope they should find a long term means to support the needs of the family and not to always ask money for whatever it is to other people on a regular basis. I don't know if they know what shame and gratitude is. They are not ill or disabled people who cannot find ways to sustain the needs of their family. And to think even their family in their own blood had already said to ignore them. 'Nuff said.

I feel that my PMS is somewhere down the road. Even a little detail affect my emotions. Recently, I posted something in a social media for my loved ones to see but it was nowhere to be found. It was deleted. Even if I don't want to feel anything for it, I felt hurt. I prayed that my hurt will just let go because it's not really a big deal after all. But I don't know. I felt a pinch in my heart. I got affected.

To end, I want to do many things to erase all these challenges that came my way lately. I'm thinking of pampering myself with facial and body massage, going to a retreat to embrace myself and meeting people who can be an inspiration for my everyday living, making memories with my family like going somewhere and doing the unusual stuff.

Thank you God for making my life not dull. I am not asking you to get rid of those unpleasant instances but I am asking for enough strength, wisdom, patience and heart to do all the things you let me encounter in this lifetime of mine. Everything that I have now -good, even the not so one- I thank you for I know you are molding me to be a person for others.

#OOTD: School Year 2015-2016

There is no stopping now. She is already a legit school girl. I cannot contain my excitement as my daughter all dolled up on her first day of school last Monday. Of course, I don't want to miss her first two days in school that is why I took a leave from work in order to know how is its situation from the time the school open its gates for the pre-schoolers until they are dismissed from their 3-hour class. (On the first day, parents and guardians were allowed to enter the school premises. But on the second day, they already implemented their rules on NO ENTRY for visitors/ parents/or guardians. The part on NO ENTRY for parents or guardians of pre-schoolers, I'm kind of half-hearted on this because as a toddler, they don't know yet how to look over on their things especially if it's packing up time. On her second day, she already lost her eraser. Oh geez!). I am proud of my daughter. Without hesitation and with a sheer of guts and confidence, she willfully went inside and placed her things inside their provided cabinets and took her seat with the assistance of her teacher. I am thankful that somehow we taught her independence early on in little ways. Unlike her other classmates who were shy, refused to enter inside the classroom while others were wailing and clinging to their mothers and fathers. On the second day, she seemed confident enough because we just let her go by herself inside the campus and managed to enter her classroom.

Second day #schoolOOTD:
Dress -Tommy Hilfiger (℅ cousin Sam including the backpack and lunch box);
 Shoes -Payless Shoe Source (a Christmas gift from her Mommy La);
Socks -Mother Care

Fourth day of #schoolOOTD:
Dress -(SIL 'pasalubong' from London);
Shoes -Chicco (got it on sale at SM around Php400.00);
Socks -Burlington

I can't wait until she will wear her official school uniform. She's excited and so am I (*wink insert*). #mommyduties #schooluniform #schoolyear2015-2016 #motherofaschoolgirl

SM Kid's Sale Loot

I am always on a look out for sale items from SM Department store especially in the kids section. I dunno know why I don't go directly in the ladies department. Maybe and like all mothers out there the mother in us always rules and comes first! And I find their kids stuff really cute especially for the girls. #mamawonders #motheratheart Don't you think?


Just this Monday, I went to SM City Davao to check on sale items for my 4 year old daughter who I brought along with me. I really love the selection of kids clothing from SM. As in everything whether it's a sale item or not. When it's a sale item naman, I find it still very okay and no flaws like what we are always used to. You know, some minor or invisible defects or stain. Usually their items on sale are last sizes or pieces that they want to dispose already. Since I am already eyeing to get a blue and green colored blouses for her, check out what I got from the sale items...

Note: I really love the Just Tees collection for girls. It's hip, trendy and very fashionista!

1) This shirt is on sale already @ Php125.00. But since they have
ongoing sales, this I got for Php100.00 na lang. Happy mama lang ang peg ko!

2) It's not in my plan to get this dark peach statement shirt.
But I like the caption. Perfect for my daughter!
I got this on sale for around Php160.00. 

3) Still on high from our London trip, I got this for her.
Since there's no red bus design available, I settled for this blue one.
Still on sale @ around Php160.00.
(They have a San Francisco design in pink.
But it's too big already for her at size 14.)

Notice I haven't found a green blouse? Well, a second trip to SM calls for that, yahoo! They have a mall wide sale at the end of April in time for Labor Day (May 1). I only spent less than Php500.00 for all 3 items. Super not bad! Hurry and check out stuff not only for your kids but for you and your home as well. #ilovesm #iheartsm

The Modern Day Cinderella

Have you seen it? I bet mothers like me with daughters have movie-dated already. My 4 year old daughter and I watched it last Friday the 13th. And I guess I'm the more excited one because being a young girl once I giddy when Ella turns into a beautiful girl with her beautiful dress, steps in to her glittering glass (slippers) shoes complete with a whole bunch of grandiose and echos, hehehe...

The most coveted glass (slippers) shoes... Stunning!

Opinion: Though everything is beautiful in the movie, I think the girl
who portrayed Cinderella doesn't fit in the role. Not because she
is not beautiful physically but there's something in her beautiful face
that didn't make me sigh on how beautiful she was. #parangmaykulang

My date.

I love how the run of the story goes. It was not totally revised I should say. Straight to the point. There was no add-on scene just to give a twist on the story. Maybe the only thing that I think was improved is that Cinderella here is empowered like the woman of today. (And fairy godmother is kinda groovy in this film). Moral lesson of the story: Be kind and have courage. Being kind as the traditional Cinderella we've known and now, coupled with having courage to face the world in times of hostilities. I like the version of this Cinderella because it speaks to the women of today. I believe that even if we are now empowered we should remain in us the kindness and meekness a woman is known for. It's like we are the hope after the storm. A ground of solace from chaos.

I recommend you to watch it. It's a nice movie especially when you bring your daughters with you. A fun bonding activity that you both will surely treasure. #perksofhavingadaughter

I cannot wait...

Goofing while waiting for lunch time to tick.

We love it striped! My office mate for a week.

I remembered my childhood days when me and my sister dressed up alike like we are twins. We have the same clothes design yet varied in color, same shoes, same hair style and so on. Now, I can relate and understand how my mother enthusiastically prepare us for any occasion or event in school, planning on what dress we're going to wear. Or how she carefully do our hairstyle and make-up. As a parent, we are proud if people admires our kids, right? Don't misinterpret me. I don't mean having a boy is not equally fun. I am a mother of two adorable girls. Dressing them up is so much exciting and I love to experiment fashion stuff worn with them. Now that my older daughter is almost 4 years old, I enjoy now bringing her along with me without so much hassle. I love tagging her along with me if I want to stroll in the mall or go somewhere going for my errands. She's now particular on what to wear and I find that challenging too because it gives me the thrill also of finding my OOTD that coincides with her outfit.


The more my daughter grows up, the more I'm eager to find time to spend it with her because she has so many things to share and tell. No more secrets for her because what she sees during the day, she already tells it to us. She going to school (pre-kinder) this coming school year and that makes me more excited and thinking of what shoes, or bag, or lunch box I'm gonna have for her. The youngest one is still too young and I, too, look forward on that day that the 3 of us share each other's likes about anything stuff that girls only understand. 

Superb Buy @ Payless

I'm one happy momma. Being a thrift and meticulous buyer now (from being an impulsive one), I am quite careful now in buying stuff not only for myself but also for the kids. The cheaper, the better. But of course, I won't sacrifice its quality. It has to be of good craftsmanship and a known and tested brand for its quality. Yesterday, after our family took lunch, I told hubby that I pass by Payless (in SM City Davao-Annex). While browsing on the shelves of the kid's area, I found a very good deal (a steal at that!). A P100.00-peso shoe ala-Toms style. I was jumping with joy (inside) and hurriedly told my hubby to buy that for Mariella. It's now or never. It's the only size and stock left so I presumed they had it on sale to dispose it na.    

Never mind the dirt. My daughter accidentally stepped on it.
It is still in very good condition. Very new. No DIRT and any flaws found.
IT'S A STEAL FOR JUST P100.00 ONLY…..

Its regular price is P695.00. Who wouldn't take it for nothing?

I was browsing the racks finding a pair for my the youngest one. But to no avail. Payless Shoe Source is currently holding its Sale season. I saw a Mary Jane style shoe for Mariella that cost only less than P400.00. It was also a good buy. Might as well go back after the pay day...

Pure Love and Joy

One fine Saturday afternoon, I had the privilege to stay at home and be with these two kulits. If you may notice in my past posts, the Ate (older sister) has the most number of exposure compared to that of the younger one. This is because, the little one can't stand yet posing for a photo resulting to blurred photos and no images at all. All she does is roam around like she doesn't care banging herself on things. Hence, may I present to you the younger sister with her uncanny facial antics. With the power of multiple shots, I was able to capture moments of them, cuddling each other and playing tricks on each other. I had fun taking snap photos of them. And I think I did well looking on this collage of photos.

Mariella loves Nique and so is Nique to her Ate Mariella.
I am super kilig on the lower right side photo where Nique is burying her Ate Mariella
with kisses. She is under those pillows thus you can't see her. After that, effects are clearly shown.
Hair raising moments.. Oh how I love Thee!

How fast time makes these two creatures grow in love with each other. Me and hubby are always in awe watching them having the fun of their early lives by loving in each other's presence. We couldn't ask for more. God has given us pure love and joy with these two people. I pray that God will give us the wisdom, compassion and love that God has set us to be their parents. We can only give what we have in us,  so I pray for total guidance and a heart and mind that's pure of love, patience, and wisdom.

On Teaching Kids' Responsibility and Building Self-Worth

     

Weekends are usually spent in the house with the family except for Saturdays where hubby is busy with his passion and for our future which is farming. And during these days, I have no 'housemates' with me because of their weekend class. Therefore, I'll be left manning the house and that includes cooking for 3 meals and spending time with my kiddos. 

Yesterday, I have an assistant cook. I'm no expert in this field but I have to because who else will do it? I have two kids to feed. Anyways, I was preparing the ingredients needed for my vegetable soup dish for lunch when suddenly my little girl stood right beside me standing on a plastic chair. At first, I was irritated because she was touching everything I prepared. At 3 years old, she knows the word cook and she wants to have an experience of it. She's been bugging me ever since to help especially if she sees me holding the magic sandok. And because I don't want her to get close to the fire, I gave her the task to pull off the malunggay leaves from its stem instead. Since I dislike that part, I gave her the authority to do it. Successfully, she managed to pull it all one by one without any side remarks, hahaha... And not yet satisfied with her cooking session, come dinner time, she did cut the string beans by her bare hands and NOT with a knife because it's dangerous. 

It dawned in me that I shouldn't deprive my children to experience activities that stimulate their senses and curiosity. Of course as parents, we have to choose and guide them on certain activities they can indulge in base on their age. Like our cooking bonding session, it was not good for me to shoo her away. But instead, let her participate on other things that I know she can carry on. Giving her the full responsibility to pull off the malunggay leaves from its stem or cut the string beans all by her self gave her the feeling of self-reliance and self-worth once her job is done. With this small gesture, as parents,we help them develop their own sense of fulfillment and boost their self-esteem. For example, once she's done, she proudly showed it to me her finished product with a smile. With that smile, there was a sense of fulfillment from her part. When I said my thank you, she lovingly embrace me back and taught her to say 'you're welcome'. Those simple and basic words like, 'thank you', 'I'm sorry', and 'you're welcome' are big enough to make a person feel valuable so I teach them those. I noticed too when I assigned her a task or ask her a favor, she lovingly do it with zest. Yes, I can now ask a favor from my 3-year-old daughter. No more worries. And to me, I feel accomplished because she cooperates with me.

Everything she did is with passion. Her sweating face and back says it all. It didn't hinder her from performing her task as my assistant. Her intention was pure and big. As long as her passion is there, I will lift her and keep her interest alive. I know when the time comes, when she becomes older, her interest will not be so much of me but of other more interesting things. From now on, I will not take my kid's curiosity for granted. Lest, feed her with the things that she ought to know and do. By giving kids simple responsibility which you think they may handle, they will eventually gain self-worth, self-confidence and trust.

Not Again Fever!

In a span of 2 weeks, my eldest daughter is down with fever again. Oh no! Another round of seven days antibiotics. That doesn't sound happiness to me when almost every month since the start of the year, my kids are regular clients of the clinic. It's not a fever that will make you complacent but will make you paranoid as a mom. 40°C to be more specific. What makes it scarier was that her nose bleed the other day because of high body temperature. But thankful to God she don't look like being sick or lethargic, lest she was up on her feet playing with her younger sister. I don't know but my instincts would always lead me to go straight to her Pediatrician. No questions ask. I would not wait for three days (that's just too long for me) if the fever is continuous and temperature goes up as high as that. My mother said, which by the way is a retired registered nurse, seizure may be possible if not treated right away or will shoot up. When at home, if high fevers does exist, is to apply whole body sponge bath in cold(but not freezing)-to-tap water and an anal suppository to combat fever that reaches 39 to 40°C. That's what also the pediatrician told me. Anal suppositories are like oral paracetamols. So I stock on Opigesic suppositories in 125mg and 250mg for my 1 year old and 3 year old kids, respectively. So far I've managed to insert it in their anus every night and early morning so I won't be disturbing their sleep when fever is still in and time for their medication. Suppositories are also very affordable in less than P20.00 pesos each. Not quite bad huh?

Just to add a little happiness to a sad note. #rainbowlooms

I felt that she's traumatic na when I bring her to the medical laboratory or to her Pediatrician, Dr. Joel T. Gallardo. She knows it that she will be again injected to get blood sample on her arms. And that bragging-ly, she will show it thereafter to us, as if she was brave enough to conquer her fears. Today is the start of her real medication. Get well my child. Mama will tirelessly look and take good care of you no matter what.

Determined and Sensitive Children

I stumbled upon Mommy Tiffany of Breakfast with Tiffany blog post yesterday. I come to conclude that I have a determined and sensitive children. What about yours? It is indeed important that we know our kid's personalities. Though they are siblings and came from the same parents, they are totally different. It is hard to manage each personalities as they are south and north, east and west. Both are super sweet but they have contrasting powers.

"MARIELLA" (The Determined one)

She's my eldest daughter. At age 3, she knows now how to do a #selfie and take shots of herself. She loves to tinker on my cellphone until it weakens the battery (Geez! These days kids are so adept to modern technology).

See how #selfie bring her to amuse herself.

The moment I arrive home from work, one thing that she welcomes me is asking where my cellphone is. I know that as parents we must avoid them from playing with it. That's why I didn't download any games in my cellphone so she won't be stuck up on it the whole time. With this, she can be creative on finding ways to amuse herself, hihihi... She's energetic, thoughtful, friendly and sociable to other kids about her age. It helped that my husband brings her along every morning for a walk in our neighborhood. There she meet the kids and play along with them. She is adored by our neighbors as she is not shy and greets them "Hi" with a smile. When dark day strikes, she has the tendency to become demanding and very insistent. I guess saying "NO" more often is not good also as they take it as a "Yes", tsk3x... Oh well, a parent's struggle.


I noticed that she can be protective to her loved ones. Everytime my husband and I argue on something, she runs to me and hug me. She will tell her papa to stop talking. And when my hubby hugs me and pretend that I get hurt from his hugging tight, she will come in defense of me and backs off his papa. She's also a loving sister to her younger sibling. She loves it that I give her the responsibility to take good care of Nique. I prepare the food of the kids and I asked her to hand me Nique's plate so that I'll put in the food. She then happily serve it to Nique by giving it to the nanny. Same with feeding of milk. She'll instantly give the prepared bottle of milk to her sister. Then she wipes any spillage that comes from her mouth. What a love! I am proud and happy of Mariella that she can be asked a favor now and starting to be an independent girl. She's much tamer now unlike before her tantrums can be overboard. Maybe because she can understand things much better and she can relate to what we are saying to her now. We love her to get some sport as we can see on her that she loves to play around without seeing her getting tired easily.

"NIQUE" (The Sensitive one)

On to my youngest daughter, Dominique. Nique (pronounced as Nikki) is a charm and a prim-and-proper type of kid. She's very timid and kind of introvert. At almost 2, she captivates everyone with her smile (the most expensive smile it is because she hardly smiles) and now her antics in dancing is such a craze in our house. She can be jolly and talkative (in her own language) when in the mood. But most of the time, she loves to be cuddled and always wants to be embraced by me our her nanny. She's just a calm baby and fond of watching Mickey Mouse Clubhouse. Nothing else. But when her tantrums hits the spot, she'll blow like a crashing thunder even to the smallest things. She'll cry her heart's out to call our attention. Ultra-sensitive is she when you hinder what she is doing or get what she is holding, she'll definitely cry out loud. Or when I put her down just to get something or do something, she'll sit on the floor and cry. When you try to reprimand her on a gentle way, she'll cry. Oh, what a cry baby she is!


Nique is still starting to discover new things around her. She is quite observant and mindful on things. Unlike her older sister, Nique is somewhat risk averse but would like to try on new things she thinks she might be able to carry on.  She can be impatient and irritable on little things that doesn't go her way. One time, she was playing with her stacking cups. When I saw her putting a cup on to the other and it didn't fit in, she pushed and scrambled all the other cups around her.


It's still too early to tell. But I know, as they are grow older they may be able to discover their own unique passion apart form each other and form a character that identifies their own unique personality. #proudmama #talesofaparent #kids

I'm in Love-ing my Girls!

Every morning as I watch my girls still in their sleep, I thank God for giving me such wonderful gifts that nothing can equate. I'm not wishing for material things (though sometimes I wish to have one and it's not so much of a priority), but I always pray and hope that God will give me and my hubby good health in order for us to enjoy more our children and that we'll be able to provide for them until they can live on their own. We wish to see their achievements and still be present in every milestone they will  be conquering. I am a proud mother to boast my children. Who wouldn't if they're as adorable as these two?

This post is nothing but gushiness and an overflowing love of a mother to her kids. Others might think it's kind of a shallow thing to post. But I tell you guys you would know how I feel when you're a parent. They are such a precious being and the unconditional love just overflows in buckets. I am looking forward to have you both full time tomorrow because it's a holiday. And that means spending the rest of the day with you two because mama has no work. Have a great holiday tomorrow fellow Filipinos! #motherlove #kids 

A Disheartened Mother: Update

See my related post here? This morning I heard over the news that the girl was finally turned over to the Women and Child Protection desk here in our city last night. The girl was brought by a lady who I guess is aged in her 40s or 50s. The girl looks fine and unharmed but her hair was cut short. Asked why she got the girl, the old lady said she was charmed by Keighla and found there's nobody with her around. She'll just wait for any contact number where she can return the girl. Reports said that it's unbelievable that the lady stole the child and that someone else did it.

Oh well, what's important is the girl is safe and is finally back in her parents arms. Lessons learned: never leave children unattended.

40°Celsius

A sponge bath of tap or lukewarm water and an (Opigesic) anal suppository (a paracetamol) are all it takes to manage a very high fever to a kid says the on-duty ER (Pedia) doctor when we rushed my baby girl to the hospital on early dawn last Sunday. You would not let to spike up its fever or else it will lead to convulsion which is very dangerous to the brain cells. I had this fear the day after Chinese New Year after my 1-year old daughter experience 2 days of very hot body temperature. I gave her paracetamol Tempra but still it won't go down to 37°C since Friday. (My mom, a retired nurse, believed on the accuracy of a mercury thermometer over the digital ones because digital thermometers, if the battery is weak or not very new, cannot read the exact reading. We wouldn't want to miscalculate body temperature, right? Though mercury thermometers is not recommended anymore due to safety reasons of the mercury in it (e.g. accidental dropping of it is dangerous to health because of exposure to mercury), one should handle it with utmost care if your are using it. Experience wise, I rely on the readings of the mercury thermometer. Though I want to have the ones used by doctors to get the temperature on the ear (Braun is a recommended brand), it's much expensive and don't have budget for that yet. I discovered somebody blogged about thermometers here and I find it very informative and useful for us mommies who have a toddler or infant babies.) Anyway, after I had my daughter checked-up yesterday, it is found she had Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) as ruled by my kid's pediatrician after getting the laboratory results. Her urine had pus cells and red blood cells which read from 6-8 compared to the usual 0-1 result. I'm not happy with the outcome of the result but I'm thankful that it's not Dengue since her blood platelet is between the normal values. 

For those who are not familiar what suppository is, this is what it looks like (photo below). One capsule is equivalent to 125mg which was given to my 1-year old baby as first aid in the emergency room (ER). I bought this around 18 pesos/each in the hospital where we went to.  

Photo source

Its texture and appearance looks like a hardened glue. It's smooth and jell-like in texture so it's easy to insert and push inside the anus of the baby using the tip first. Just push it slowly until you can't see any white thing peeping at the opening of the anus. But before putting it, we were told to give her a sponge bath first in tap or lukewarm water. By sponge bath, the doctor told us not to rub the cloth on the body but by patting or just wrapping the cloth on the baby's skin especially on the head part, the armpits and the "singit" area. Rubbing would cause redness if rubbed too hard and during fever the skin is sensitive and is painful if done the wrong way. Even if I rubbed it gently, the doctor executed it for me to just wrapped it at my baby's skin is enough.

Photo source

I'm just too anxious about fever on kids nowadays. Before, in my time, my mother would just give us Naprex, or a Royal Tru Orange softdrinks mixed with fresh egg (I still don't know what's the reason behind this) and we will be okay. But now, a simple fever should not be taken for granted because it might lead to something worst (e.g. Dengue, Measles, Chikungunya, or any viral infection that could lead to Pneumonia) and it might be too late. I will spend for my kids health rather than just shrugging and guessing that she/he looks fine naman kaya no need to go to the doctor. I had another experience of this when my almost 3-year old kid when she was still a year and 3 months, she was hit by Pneumonia without any signs of her coughing. She just had the same high fever and I was crying already. I had to bring her to the hospital because she was just calm and her skin color is pale already. She was just sleeping the whole time.

This time, I won't take any chances. No need to wait for worst thing to happen. I'll just use my mothering instinct and it will give me peace of mind. #sickkid 

February is Love and Giving

How fast time flies the second time. I can't stop saying this because it's indeed true like a roller coaster thing. Now it's the Love month and just yesterday we celebrated the Chinese New Year where we welcome the year of the wood horse. Everything just happens in a fast forward pace but still the season of giving is not yet over. We all know that February is the month of Valentine's day wherein we Filipinos celebrate it for the sake of love which really means a lot for us. And I think because we really are loving people, the gesture of celebrating it comes naturally within us. Like the Christmas season, a lot of establishments mostly malls and restaurants decorate its place with hearts and playing love songs in their sound systems. Isn't it heartwarming? Because Love signifies giving, we also think of gifts to give our love ones. Thus, we see vendors selling flowers and stuff to give to the love of our lives which I find really cute and mushy in an endearing way... ;-)

This month excites me because of 3 things. Well first, it's Valentine's day. Me and my hubby makes it a point to have a fancy dinner. It's just a once in a year occasion where we make a deal to dress elegantly and dine NOT just in any budget friendly restaurant. We look for a fine-dining restaurant where we haven't eaten in there yet. Now we changed plans. We planned to have a stay-cation in a hotel just within the city. It's the in thing now and we vow not to bring the kids with us. Just me and him alone. We want to hang around and be in each others arms without the kids getting our undivided attention from each other. It's kind of mushy though but in reality, married couples need this and I believe in that too. My hubby is not very vocal but he really frequently verbalizes it that I don't have time for him anymore. I know he understands because there are 2 kids that needs my utmost attention. But being a wife I should give him what is due for him. True girls? It's the time that we can spend quality time with each other and just recharge and renew away from our everyday routine.

The second thing that looks me forward to this month is our Valentine's day giveaways here in our office. Years back, the owner of the company where I'm working now, who is also my boss, gives chocolates and Valentine's tokens to single ladies. But now, every girl, single or married, gets one. What excites me is I am in charge of planning what to give for every single lady in the office. This part makes it exciting for me since I'll be getting one of it, I search for the best stuff. Months ahead, as early as Christmas season, I'm already dreading on thinking for possible giveaways. Challenging yet fun huh! Everything is all worth it especially if you see the ladies giggling as they receive their presents. Flowers and chocolates are girl's BFF same with diamonds too. Agree!?

To give you a picture of what I received in 2012, see photo below. I got this from Papelmelroti. See their link here. They have great stuff perfect for any occasion giveaways.

Paperweight

For this item, we just customized it. We bought wooden clips and glued it at the back of the "Guardian Angel on duty" sign. This serves as a double purpose now. A memo holder cum paperweight. Below, we added the caption "Happy Heart's Day!" to fit the occasion. This is a good way to hone and play one's creativity that's why I enjoy doing this annually. Last year our giveaways were envirosax bags which we got from Daiso and assorted brownies from the Fudge Factory. With the help of my ever crafty and visually gifted officemate, the giveaways makes it more alive, presentable and meaningful. Check out her blog here.

The last reason of my love for this month is my daughter's birth month. I never knew the genuine meaning of love until the birth of my first child. All the more I appreciate the meaning of giving, unconditional love, sacrifice and looking at my kid's needs first than mine are all worth it because my great joy are their happiness and comfort.

How about you? What are your thoughts on #Valentinesday? #love #family #chocolatesandflowers

Monster Momma

I believe a parent or a mother wants the best for their kids. As much as possible we want them to enjoy and give them what makes them happy. Being a mother is one great task more than your career in a corporate world. Even if you hold the highest rank in a big company, being a mom is undeniably the most challenging, fulfilling and rewarding job anyone can hold. One of the toughest job about being a parent or a mother in my case, is that you have to mold a respectful and obedient citizen of this world. It is not as easy as A-B-C or 1-2-3. When you become a parent, you will instantly know how it feels to become one. Just recently, I seem to have short-lived patience and easily lose my temper with my almost 3 year old daughter. Am I getting old to have this kind of losing self-control? It's been a stressing scenario everytime we exchange conversation which requires me to raise my voice and the little girl in return. This is due to dealing with a disobedient child. She seem to always do the other way in spite of being told how many times not to. Most of the parenting tips that I read online is to talk to the child calmly and privately and have an eye to eye level when doing so. Even if as young as 2 or 3 years old, they may not fully comprehend yet what you are saying, but talking to them in a calm and lowered voice and away from the public's eyes may let them feel that they are dealt with properly. So far I've practiced it with my child but most of the times, it fails me. It ends up to spanking, pointing fingers and scary face just to let her know she's doing the wrong way. Of course, the physical thing is not brutally done but is enough to feel a little pain. I feel a failure as a mom and a guilty and frustrated person which I don't like at all. Most of the times I feel that I've becoming like a monstrous and terrifying person to them. It hurts me everytime the little girl cries because of reprimanding her for doing the bad things. Disciplining a child is not as easy as doing the most grueling tasks at work. At least work responsibilities would only take a couple of days or weeks and you're free. Teaching your child demands more time, patience and attention until they are ready to face the world of their own. So it takes about years of roller coaster rides. I'm a bit worried that this attitude she's showing might be a reflection of how we treat her. We give her her wants and needs but not to the extent of spoiling her which we don't want to do. Her insisting attitude prompts us to be a little too uptight on her. Of course we don't want to tolerate such deeds.

Once and just recently, a long time officer in the company I'm working with who also just resigned, visited our office and asked me how am I being a new mom of 2. I shrugged and grinned saying "nagkagidlay" (It's a Filipino-Visayan term meaning worn-out or torn). He laughed out too and agreed with me. So I realized all parents understood and agree to each others sentiments about raising children. Being worn-out and stressed is basically normal for parents with toddlers. So it's up to you how you would cope and handle when caught in this kind of situation.

I don't want to look cringe-y for them. I want them to know this is for their own good and ours too. I know in time, as she will grow a little bit more, she'll understand us and I won't wear anymore a monster face. I know in time, I won't have a hard time dealing with them for they would understand what we are trying to imply. I know the time will come there would be no shouting and crying heads echoing in our house. I know in time, the monster in me will come to vanish. And God knows how I wish that that monster will come to end soon.

Mariella and Her Super Friends

Motherhood brings back the child in me. It brings me back to the days of cartoons and animated shows wherein me and my siblings used to enjoy. Until now it brings back good memories because of my kids. Meet Dora the Explorer and her friend, Boots the Monkey. This is my 2-year old daughter's favorite cartoon character bought and given by my mother. It's quite expensive for a 2 & 1/2-inch miniature though. It cost P50.00 pesos each. Over the weekend, she enjoyed getting photos of them using my mobile phone. "Mama, picture!" #DoratheExplorerfriends #childhoodmemories

A picture of a happy kid.

She can't get over her Dora the Explorer friends.

Aside from Dora the Explorer, she loves Mickey Mouse Clubhouse too. I remember before, me and my siblings including my cousins love Tom & Jerry. We love watching The Super Book because of the biblical story it portray. 

How about you? What's your fondest memory and favorite cartoon flicks?  

My Solid Ground

Recently, I'm feeling down and a lot of things wander in my mind. I'd like to shake it off in my head and hoping by doing that, it would take away all the worries in an instant. But that would be impossible. And why not? Again, I have to tell myself, why do I have to settle on what's not making me happy? Why not think of happy thoughts and positive notes instead? Silly me (tee hee).

Why worry when I have these...

Waking up everyday seeing these bundle of joy and faces that warms and lightens up every corner of our home is pure joy, pure love, pure happiness and more. Even if chaos, screaming and shouting to the fullest, whether of laughter or of tantrum episodes, there's peace in my heart that we're one normal, sane, happy and loving family. That's what matters the most. When you became a mom and have a family of your own, you know what I'm saying. 

My sleeping tigress...

...and my sleeping lioness NOT in action.

This post is inspired by Mommy Frances of Topaz Mommy (though not the same topic). She said on her parting words and I quote... I tell my boys (my girls on my part), though they are still very young, that they don't have to be friends, they don't have to like the same things, they don't have to even like each other, but that they have to be there for each other, that they'll have each other's back, that they will watch out for each other. No matter what! And that's what having more than one child has done for me, too. I know my kids have each other. Vince and I will die one day. Our children won't be alone. It's a comfort to a parent's heart.

My hubby and I have built our foundation of love and commitment by seeing through the eyes of our children. That made us grounded and solid even more.

Forewarn: I am wary and seldom post photos of my kids for security and protection reasons. I just post if NEEDED in my topic. Not because there's a threat in our family or we're a celebrity for that matter. No, we're not that prominent. And because I'm into the blogosphere world and access to one's personal information is very easy peasy. There are idiots out there who are just plain crazy to use other else's property without restrictions to the extent of damaging one's being. Whoever uses the photos of my kids from this blog without permission, in any form that is damaging shall be LIABLE, legally and to our God Almighty. Bahala na si BAD KARMA sa inyo! You will reap what you sow.

First Glimpse of the #Royal Trio

Believe me. I have been glued to this recent event. This is my professed happiness knowing that the royal baby's birth date is the same as mine. I am so overjoyed and honored in my own little way that we have this particular similarity with the Prince of Cambridge (hehehe). And since my brother is working in UK, I asked him if he has taken photos of the most awaited appearance of these three. And to my delight, I asked for some photos for me to blog it.

The Royal couple dressed in blue hue is a picture of a happy and beautiful family now. As I chatted with my brother, he said the baby wears a frowning face maybe because of the flashes that came from the cameras and because everybody is in frenzy and noisy when they came out. Such a lovely family.

Next, I will be awaiting for the baby's name. Hmmmm.... Can you guess?

Footnote: Around 3 years ago, I received an email offering me a job on this particular hospital. I didn't mind it since a lot of scam is circulating around the internet and thought it's a joke. If ever I did accept it, and if the job offer was indeed true, maybe I got to see first hand the royal family on my birthday. Wow! heavens... #wishfulthinking

My Favorite (current) stash: Cloth Diapers

When you're a mom especially a new one, you forget your needs (and even the wants) and excited on the little ones. Having a baby makes shopping extra exciting for me. Not that I do it regularly. But the moment I step at the department store, the first and must-go for me is the baby/infant section. I don't know. The mother-in-me I guess. Baby finds are a delight for me. Seeing new stuff and innovative products that is useful and beneficial to my baby amazes me all the time.

My current addiction and slowly stashing my collection is cloth diapers. Although a bit expensive at first but in the long run it's all worth it and a good investment. Actually this is a traditional practice before disposable diapers are introduced in the market. Cloth diapers nowadays are re-branded, redesigned and reinvented that will fit and suit to the lifestyle of the mothers of today at the same time. Now that we are ecologically, health and financially conscious about almost everything, Cloth diapering can help save almost everything too!

Initially, I was a bit apprehensive because of the inconvenience it may bring: the leaks, the constant and frequency of diaper changes, the amount of diapers to be laundered and all unlike and compared to disposable diapers. It took me a while to give it a try. But because I want to contribute in saving the environment, budget money expenses and what's best for my baby (click here to know what I mean), I gave this a try only 4 months ago. Now that my second baby is 8 months old (I regretted I didn't used it on my eldest baby now she's 2), it was a surprise that everything I thought about saving indeed came true. Now I have only 4 Cloth diapers on hand (1 Alva, 1 Bamboo Dappy & 2 Baby Leaf, in order according to my preference. But there are a lot in the market that is available depending on your preference. I shall have a separate post about a review of my cloth diaper experience.) but it is still not enough. For a start one should have at least 8-10 cloth diapers or at most 12 depending on the extent your baby is on wetting/pooping. That is for an alternate use already. And cloth diapers should be hand washed every other day that is why you need to have extras to use for the next day. In a day, my baby uses at normal about 3 cloth diapers and at night about 2 disposable diapers. I am planning also to fully cloth diaper my 2 daughters at night where overnight inserts are also locally available. A local seller sells overnight inserts (5-layers) at a price of 150pesos. There are a lot of information about Cloth diapers and diapering itself. I still consider myself a newbie and it helps that I get to know about cloth diaper and its proper use because for me it is all worth trying for.

I am very grateful that I blog because in here I knew about this. I have a list of blog roll of mommies who had great insights about Cloth Diaper/ing 101. You can view them on the right side column on my page --Mothering/Family/Home. Recently, I found in Facebook a group called MCNP (Modern Cloth Nappying Pinays) Group Buys. In here, you get a lot and more insights about different cloth diapers in the market and where you can buy it, frequently asked questions about cloth diaper and diapering and these mothers can help you especially if you are first time mommies or make shift to cloth diapering for your little ones. Since then I can't get over about cloth diapers because aside from the fact that it helped me in so many ways, I just love the designs and styles that makes me wanna hoard it. These has gone to a whole new level of Cloth diapering because of its stylishness and oomph not only for little girls but even for the little guys as well. I love being a mother as much as I love Cloth diaper/ing.

In Style: Kids Fashion

Kids nowadays are way too far from our generation in terms of fashion. Back in the 80's, me and my siblings were okay whatever our mother dresses us. And whatever is given, we were delighted and very happy. You know for kids, gifts are ultimate happiness. Unlike before, today's selection of kids clothes are flooded with all sorts of style that even adults would love to have it too. And even little ones know what kind of clothes they want to wear for as young as 2 years old. Call it instant fashionistas! And because of so many advertisements bombarding television, radio and print, you can never blame your kids where they get these great fashion ideas. One advantage of having a girl kid is that you can dress them up and prettify them so easy. And seeing them so adorable makes me one proud and happy Momma!

Last Saturday, my entire family spent a good 'ol time because it was my father's birthday. We celebrated it at Ayala Abreeza Mall of Davao and ate lunch at Shakey's. We had a great time because the little ones (the cousins) were able to spend time playing around. They really had a good time and enjoyed like they owned the mall; running, walking, shrieking to their hearts delight as they roam the entire mall and played at the Atrium playground. It was such a joy seeing our kids so happy and free! Cousins Mariella and Danna were so happy to see each other and played together.

Danna (left): Top-Spoiled ; Pants -Spoiled
Mariella (right): Top-Mothercare; Shorts -Denim Co.

Mariella: Shoes -Mothercare boots

Danna: Shoes -Payless
(Pardon for the lost pair. This is the only picture that 's not blurred. The rest were vague to the eyes.)

The whole time they were hugging each other. They miss each other terribly.

..Until they were down and out.