Last saturday, during my prayer time, I was a bit tensed. I was a bit tensed because I came to a realization, that aside from the material things we are still wishing we can have, everything seems to be perfect. Perfect? I have kids, I have healthy, bright and happy kids. I have my hubby. I have a very thoughtful and loving hubby.Career wise, everything is doing great as well. We, at prsent don't have any major problems -- health, financial worries, relationships. And the thought of that scared me. It scared me because even if I know and have been reminded countless times of God's great love for us and that He only wants what's best for us, not having any problems at present made me doubt this and still thought He might plan to make it up next time or to make "bawi" with us in the future. Crazy thoughts like -- sickness, accidents, major relationship problems or career issues came in to my mind. Crazy right?
So yesterday I just shared my thoughts with Alvin. I asked him if he was scared with the thought that everything is going smoothly. Well, of course this is aside from the other "wants" that we still have in mind. We are not bothered with these wants because we can live without them. As I have told Alvin, these extras are just a bonus. The good thing about this conversation was he was also able to think about it too and realized that indeed we have been blessed. We recalled the major problems we have had before and remembered that in those trying times we were hurdling them calmly -- thru prayers. We didn't come to that point wherein we had to question God why we were having those problems. We didn't come to that point where we had to ask Him, "why me? why us?" And we think we did a good job at that. Bottomline, we realized as a couple that if ever something big (problem) comes along the way, it is not God's way of making "bawi" to us,for all the good things He has given us, but is just part of His great plan for us.
The thought of having another (major) problem or God taking something away from us, from me, still scares the hell out of me. But I realized that doubting will do no good for me. I must believe that God's love for all of us is faithful. He is not a selfish God. He will always want and do what is best for us. I should not doubt.
Monday, May 30, 2011
Thursday, May 26, 2011
extra time
i don't know what i did, or what happened but the past days i suddenly found myself having more free time :) oh, i'm still doing what i have been doing the past 6 months -- the chores and even doing some of alvin's chores now, so i really don't know what happened. to think that this week, i had to bring liam to the dentist for his annual check up. but i'm loving it.
now, i'm in the mood for cooking. i just baked bread and butter pudding. loving the smell of cinnamon and butter inside the house :) tomorrow, i plan to cook beef salpicao and chicken mini-drummers with liver spread. on saturday, i plan to cook mac and cheese and homemade mashed potatoes, as well as sweet and sour pork. on sunday, i'll cook tinola and steamed basa fillet in soy. we won't be eating all of it, some of them will go straight to the freezer, as next week will be a busy week -- i have a class, the last meeting for this term, yipee!
i just realized that i am really a workaholic person. i can't just sit and do nothing. i need to do things, my brain needs to work, i need to move. oh, don't worry, in the busyness of my everyday life, i don't forget to relax, i get to have long afternoon naps now with my kids, blogging relaxes me, and so is watching master chef or other tv shows at night with my family. i still get to do fb, and my bible reading is becoming more regular now. so what happened? i don't know, but i am very thankful for this extra time :)
now, i'm in the mood for cooking. i just baked bread and butter pudding. loving the smell of cinnamon and butter inside the house :) tomorrow, i plan to cook beef salpicao and chicken mini-drummers with liver spread. on saturday, i plan to cook mac and cheese and homemade mashed potatoes, as well as sweet and sour pork. on sunday, i'll cook tinola and steamed basa fillet in soy. we won't be eating all of it, some of them will go straight to the freezer, as next week will be a busy week -- i have a class, the last meeting for this term, yipee!
i just realized that i am really a workaholic person. i can't just sit and do nothing. i need to do things, my brain needs to work, i need to move. oh, don't worry, in the busyness of my everyday life, i don't forget to relax, i get to have long afternoon naps now with my kids, blogging relaxes me, and so is watching master chef or other tv shows at night with my family. i still get to do fb, and my bible reading is becoming more regular now. so what happened? i don't know, but i am very thankful for this extra time :)
Sunday, May 22, 2011
cooking shows
I am one of the million (billion?) people who enjoys watching cooking shows. It didn't happen overnight. I remember watching Wok With Yan with much gusto when I was still a kid. Saturday afternoons at Channel 9 :) Then, the Del Monte Kitchenomics segment of Eat Bulaga every weekends. I was entertained alright but I think at that time, I was too young to learn everything. But still, those shows inspired me to cook. Of course, as a young kid, it was a bit hard to do the things they were doing on the shows. I had to wait to grow up.
I can say that I am lucky to have a hubby who loves to cook as well. Back in Manila, we watched new cooking shows and tried to make dishes and learn from the tips shared by the chefs. Now based here in Australia, our family spends time together relaxing and watching more cooking shows. At present we are hooked with the reality cooking shows -- My Kitchen Rules and Master Chef. The funny and good thing is, Liam is hooked as well. I have already shared in my previous blog how these shows inspire him to cook -- during his pretend play with his cousins, and also helping us out now in small ways when we cook at home. He is even hooked in watching youtube videos of baking and cake design.
Back to cooking shows. I have started to learn and practice the techniques I have been seeing at these shows. I super love the Master Class episodes of Master Chef because we get so much tips!
Because of these shows:
a. my culinary vocubulary is now increasing. It is not limited to baking :) I already know the meaning of some words like venison, poach, braise, etc.
b. i already know more cooking techniques like poach, and knowing the diff kinds of potatoes and ways to cook them
c. i am now more adventurous in tasting new dishes -- like crocodile meat, emu meat,kangaroo meat. if it wasn't for these shows, i think i won't give in to tasting dishes made up of these animal meat.
d. i get to whip up a new and exciting dish for my family
e. i get to do the easy dishes and make my family happy :)
maybe the cooking shows' formats changed over the years but one thing is for sure, they will always be here to stay.
I can say that I am lucky to have a hubby who loves to cook as well. Back in Manila, we watched new cooking shows and tried to make dishes and learn from the tips shared by the chefs. Now based here in Australia, our family spends time together relaxing and watching more cooking shows. At present we are hooked with the reality cooking shows -- My Kitchen Rules and Master Chef. The funny and good thing is, Liam is hooked as well. I have already shared in my previous blog how these shows inspire him to cook -- during his pretend play with his cousins, and also helping us out now in small ways when we cook at home. He is even hooked in watching youtube videos of baking and cake design.
Back to cooking shows. I have started to learn and practice the techniques I have been seeing at these shows. I super love the Master Class episodes of Master Chef because we get so much tips!
Because of these shows:
a. my culinary vocubulary is now increasing. It is not limited to baking :) I already know the meaning of some words like venison, poach, braise, etc.
b. i already know more cooking techniques like poach, and knowing the diff kinds of potatoes and ways to cook them
c. i am now more adventurous in tasting new dishes -- like crocodile meat, emu meat,kangaroo meat. if it wasn't for these shows, i think i won't give in to tasting dishes made up of these animal meat.
d. i get to whip up a new and exciting dish for my family
e. i get to do the easy dishes and make my family happy :)
maybe the cooking shows' formats changed over the years but one thing is for sure, they will always be here to stay.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
If You Had The Choice
Death is not something we can escape from. One way or another, we will reach the end of the road. But as they say, God only knows when and how.
The husband of our wedding godmother is presently battling Stage 2 Colon Cancer. Of course, I was saddened with this news. When I think what the family, espcieally what our ninang has to go through, I find them lucky. Of course we are still praying for the complete healing of Tito Nick, but then again, if it goes the other way, I find it consoling that at least they had the chance to spend more time together --QUALITY time together. I know that things change especially when something drastic, like sickness, happens to our loved ones. There is a radical change that happens not only with the sick person, but the people around him as well. I believe that if it happens to me (knock on wood) I will make sure that I will make the most of the time left. Make sure that each day is special not only for me but for my loved ones. Wounds can be healed, love deepened, faith strengthened. I always pray that if ever God takes me, I would not want it abruptly -- sudden. I just can't imagine the grief and the pain of those whom I will be leaving behind. But, does that mean, I want to experience the physical suffering of people who are sick, if it means I can spend more time with my family, my kids? Maybe. I don't know.
"At least he didn't have a hard time", is what they usually say when someone passes so suddenly -- not wanting their loved one to experience the pain and all. But if you were the one to leave, what would you choose? All I know is that at this point in my life, I'd still prefer to experience the pain and spend more time with my loved ones than to leave them unprepared.
The husband of our wedding godmother is presently battling Stage 2 Colon Cancer. Of course, I was saddened with this news. When I think what the family, espcieally what our ninang has to go through, I find them lucky. Of course we are still praying for the complete healing of Tito Nick, but then again, if it goes the other way, I find it consoling that at least they had the chance to spend more time together --QUALITY time together. I know that things change especially when something drastic, like sickness, happens to our loved ones. There is a radical change that happens not only with the sick person, but the people around him as well. I believe that if it happens to me (knock on wood) I will make sure that I will make the most of the time left. Make sure that each day is special not only for me but for my loved ones. Wounds can be healed, love deepened, faith strengthened. I always pray that if ever God takes me, I would not want it abruptly -- sudden. I just can't imagine the grief and the pain of those whom I will be leaving behind. But, does that mean, I want to experience the physical suffering of people who are sick, if it means I can spend more time with my family, my kids? Maybe. I don't know.
"At least he didn't have a hard time", is what they usually say when someone passes so suddenly -- not wanting their loved one to experience the pain and all. But if you were the one to leave, what would you choose? All I know is that at this point in my life, I'd still prefer to experience the pain and spend more time with my loved ones than to leave them unprepared.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
eyes on the "ball"
a month ago alvin asked me if we had some projects in line. you know, stuff to buy, things to do, and the like. when he asked me that time i can't think of any answer, so i just told him there was none that i can think of.
yesterday, it just hit me. since this projects of mine -- clear the pantry and ref -- is admittedly helping us save more, i decided to tell him this project last night :) i have 2 years to save on it. no, it's not our first home, it's something else ;) when i told him about it last night, i think he was ok with it, but of course he had to tell me, "kayang kaya natin yan if you work" hehehe
well, i just realized that if i have this big project in mind, maybe it can keep me away from the shops, and spending money on things we already have. i keep on complaining about all the clothes and clutter we have at home, and yet, i still keep on buying, so what's the use, right? so now, i am dead set on saving for the big project. will not buy new clothes, not eat out too much, not look and visit sites that will only make me spend, not go to the shops often. aja!
when i was a kid, when i wanted to buy something and my parents cannot (and will not) give me the funds to buy it, i really did all possible means to save for it, so i can buy it. i guess, this time, i will have to do it all over again :)
so from today, up until 2013, my eyes will be on the "ball"! :) so help me God :)
yesterday, it just hit me. since this projects of mine -- clear the pantry and ref -- is admittedly helping us save more, i decided to tell him this project last night :) i have 2 years to save on it. no, it's not our first home, it's something else ;) when i told him about it last night, i think he was ok with it, but of course he had to tell me, "kayang kaya natin yan if you work" hehehe
well, i just realized that if i have this big project in mind, maybe it can keep me away from the shops, and spending money on things we already have. i keep on complaining about all the clothes and clutter we have at home, and yet, i still keep on buying, so what's the use, right? so now, i am dead set on saving for the big project. will not buy new clothes, not eat out too much, not look and visit sites that will only make me spend, not go to the shops often. aja!
when i was a kid, when i wanted to buy something and my parents cannot (and will not) give me the funds to buy it, i really did all possible means to save for it, so i can buy it. i guess, this time, i will have to do it all over again :)
so from today, up until 2013, my eyes will be on the "ball"! :) so help me God :)
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Sirenang Bilog!
Just got inspired with what my Papa commented when I updated my status in FB regardig Sam's swimming lessons :)
After three weeks, I have seen great progress in our baby girl's swimming skills. Aside from the fact that the water this week is much, much, warmer as compared to the first 2 weeks, Sam now doesn't show any signs of fear when we're in the water. She is slowly adapting to the routine of the class and getting familiar with the songs we sing during class.
Today as well, I finally had the courage to submerge her in the pool and to let go of her so she can swim towards her teacher! She can now kick better and can swim a bit towards her teacher without me holding her :)
She was dead tired at the end of the session but when she woke up she was still in a good mood :) getting more talkative by the day, yipee!
i'm actually loving this :) her swimming lessons are great stimulants for learning and physical development and we get to bond as well :) not to mentional skills like developing trust and self confidence for her part :)
learning how to swim is not only learning the sport. it's a life-saving skill as well. and when i say swim, it's not merely getting wet, splashing and playing in the water -- like what i do ;)
After three weeks, I have seen great progress in our baby girl's swimming skills. Aside from the fact that the water this week is much, much, warmer as compared to the first 2 weeks, Sam now doesn't show any signs of fear when we're in the water. She is slowly adapting to the routine of the class and getting familiar with the songs we sing during class.
Today as well, I finally had the courage to submerge her in the pool and to let go of her so she can swim towards her teacher! She can now kick better and can swim a bit towards her teacher without me holding her :)
She was dead tired at the end of the session but when she woke up she was still in a good mood :) getting more talkative by the day, yipee!
i'm actually loving this :) her swimming lessons are great stimulants for learning and physical development and we get to bond as well :) not to mentional skills like developing trust and self confidence for her part :)
learning how to swim is not only learning the sport. it's a life-saving skill as well. and when i say swim, it's not merely getting wet, splashing and playing in the water -- like what i do ;)
Saturday, May 14, 2011
snippets
finally! after a day of trying to log in and write a blog, blogger.com is now again functioning normally! :)
winter will officially begin by 1st of June but the past few days we have already been having a taste of winter! well, born to a tropical country, most Filipinos, including me, fret when it's winter. they or we see so many bad things associated with this season. but yesterday, instead of entertaining reasons why I don't like winter, I thought of reasons why I love winter. it's still a very short list but hey, it's a start :) this season will not leave me for the next 3 or 4 months so why not make it a pleasant one?
-- i love winter because the grass in our lawn slows down its growth process, which in turn makes my mowing duty not every two weeks but after a month or longer! yipee! :) less stress and less in electricity use as well :)
-- i love winter because i have more reason to snuggle up in bed with my hubby and kids at night and in the mornings. extended when it's the weekends :)
-- i love winter because i have another reason to go shopping hehehe just like what we did yesterday! Liam, Sam and myself headed off to the shops yesterday and bought winter clothes and home accessories
-- I love winter because our leftover foods' shelf life are extended as well :)
more next time ;)
I had my first session/class for Term 2 last Thursday. I can't believe that I'm just two more terms away from finishing my Certificate course! yipee! To think that I almost dropped it last year, at the height of my 1st tri discomforts. Good thing Alvin persuaded me to still try all possible means before quitting. He's really my angel! :) I am actually done with all my term papers for this term ;) I am just waiting for our sessions to submit them. I need to do things in advance because I will go home before my graduation in early December :)
***
A few weeks ago Liam told me I'm so fat and even asked if I had another baby in my tummy! LOL! Well, who wouldn't get fat? We went to the market this morning and when I was already fixing the things we bought, our ref ended up almost full! I told Alvin that probably, next week, we can skip going to the market and try to finish everything inside it first, just like my empty-the-pantry project. Aside from saving money, we also get to avoid food wastage (the left overs that got spoiled already because neither of us wants to eat it already!)
***
Because of MKR and Master Chef Liam's interest in cooking has tripled! Sometimes I catch him pretending to cook, describing what he is doing like the hosts of the cooking shows, using his fireman hat as a bowl and our toiletries as his ingredients. It's a funny and a beautiful sight! :) He watches a LOT of youtube videos on cake decorating -- especially the Fire Engine Cake. He is even requesting me to make one for his birthday! He is definitely interested in cooking, no doubt about that! I asked him if he wanted to be a chef and he said he wanted to be a Fireman Chef! So cute! Well, whatever he decides to be in the future, I will just support him. But as for now, I will foster his interest in cooking :)
This afternoon I made a very simple fruit salad. Seeing me busy in the kitchen he turned off the TV and asked if he can help me. Of course I said yes! While making the salad, I was also teaching/giving him some tips in cooking like: always first wash your hands before you handle food; you taste what you created; and telling him the names of the ingredients we were using, even the equipment. Today he learned what a spatula is. As for his participation in the making of our fruit salad, I asked him to put fresh seedless grapes in the bowl :) I asked him to make sure that the small branches will not be included, it was such a joy to see him double-checking each grape that he is putting in the bowl :) OC.
I am sure this is just one of the many times we will be cooking together :) When he gets a bit older I will be willing to give him more responsbilities :) Who knows, he might really be a Fireman Chef someday! ;)
winter will officially begin by 1st of June but the past few days we have already been having a taste of winter! well, born to a tropical country, most Filipinos, including me, fret when it's winter. they or we see so many bad things associated with this season. but yesterday, instead of entertaining reasons why I don't like winter, I thought of reasons why I love winter. it's still a very short list but hey, it's a start :) this season will not leave me for the next 3 or 4 months so why not make it a pleasant one?
-- i love winter because the grass in our lawn slows down its growth process, which in turn makes my mowing duty not every two weeks but after a month or longer! yipee! :) less stress and less in electricity use as well :)
-- i love winter because i have more reason to snuggle up in bed with my hubby and kids at night and in the mornings. extended when it's the weekends :)
-- i love winter because i have another reason to go shopping hehehe just like what we did yesterday! Liam, Sam and myself headed off to the shops yesterday and bought winter clothes and home accessories
-- I love winter because our leftover foods' shelf life are extended as well :)
more next time ;)
I had my first session/class for Term 2 last Thursday. I can't believe that I'm just two more terms away from finishing my Certificate course! yipee! To think that I almost dropped it last year, at the height of my 1st tri discomforts. Good thing Alvin persuaded me to still try all possible means before quitting. He's really my angel! :) I am actually done with all my term papers for this term ;) I am just waiting for our sessions to submit them. I need to do things in advance because I will go home before my graduation in early December :)
***
A few weeks ago Liam told me I'm so fat and even asked if I had another baby in my tummy! LOL! Well, who wouldn't get fat? We went to the market this morning and when I was already fixing the things we bought, our ref ended up almost full! I told Alvin that probably, next week, we can skip going to the market and try to finish everything inside it first, just like my empty-the-pantry project. Aside from saving money, we also get to avoid food wastage (the left overs that got spoiled already because neither of us wants to eat it already!)
***
Because of MKR and Master Chef Liam's interest in cooking has tripled! Sometimes I catch him pretending to cook, describing what he is doing like the hosts of the cooking shows, using his fireman hat as a bowl and our toiletries as his ingredients. It's a funny and a beautiful sight! :) He watches a LOT of youtube videos on cake decorating -- especially the Fire Engine Cake. He is even requesting me to make one for his birthday! He is definitely interested in cooking, no doubt about that! I asked him if he wanted to be a chef and he said he wanted to be a Fireman Chef! So cute! Well, whatever he decides to be in the future, I will just support him. But as for now, I will foster his interest in cooking :)
This afternoon I made a very simple fruit salad. Seeing me busy in the kitchen he turned off the TV and asked if he can help me. Of course I said yes! While making the salad, I was also teaching/giving him some tips in cooking like: always first wash your hands before you handle food; you taste what you created; and telling him the names of the ingredients we were using, even the equipment. Today he learned what a spatula is. As for his participation in the making of our fruit salad, I asked him to put fresh seedless grapes in the bowl :) I asked him to make sure that the small branches will not be included, it was such a joy to see him double-checking each grape that he is putting in the bowl :) OC.
I am sure this is just one of the many times we will be cooking together :) When he gets a bit older I will be willing to give him more responsbilities :) Who knows, he might really be a Fireman Chef someday! ;)
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Half A Year
Sam is now 24 weeks old. Wow. Has it been 6 months since I took her into my arms and cuddled her for the 1st time? Time flies.
When Alvin and I decided to put my career on hold for a year so I can take care of our new bundle of joy, I thought it would take forever! Being the impatient person that I am, I thought that this will be the longest 12 months of my life! But no. Time indeed flies when you're having fun :)I can't believe she's now six months old! I can still remember when me, Alvin, Liam and his yaya Joy went out to have dinner at the newly renovated SM North to celebrate Liam's six month birthday! Now, on the 21st of this month, it will be Sam's turn! :)
It is still challenging day in and day out, especially after a long day at home. Taking care of the kids and trying to put order at home is really something! But everytime I look at my little baby girl (and his Kuya Liam), happy and healthy, all my "drama moments" vanish into thin air!
I have been receiving praises and good comments on how my children look good (healthy) and with their happy disposition. A former colleague from Ateneo even told me that my children look "talagang naalagaan." These praises are music to my ears and make the sacrifices worth it :)
My little Sam is not so little anymore. She now weighs almost 9kgs, uses Toddler size for her nappies, wears a size 0 or a size 1 (depending on the brand, she now eats solids, she can now turn herself over (back to tummy, then tummy to back again) all by herself, she can crawl a bit, she can now "tell" me if she does or does not want something, she has different kind of cries -- a cry for "I want a nap or I'm sleepy", "I am hungry", "I want a massage", "I want to play", and "I want up". She has changed her sleeping patterns now:one around 8-9 am, another around 11, one long nap by 1pm to around half past 2, and another long nap around 4pm. She now sleeps around 8:30 pm, so her Papa can still play with her. She recognizes faces; shows fear when being held by someone she is not familiar with. She babbles and laughs and gives the sweetest smile. She shows her temper when her routine is abit disrupted (uh-oh) and when Mama dresses her up with lots of girly stuff! She loves to play with her Kuya and buys all her Kuya Liam's jokes! She falls asleep really quickly when it's her Papa that puts her to sleep. She loves the smell of her Papa. She is still breastfed. She can now stand and sit by herself in 5 seconds or less. She is a tall and big baby according to her GP. I'm a happy mum.
Sometimes I envy my husband for the "me time" he gets to enjoy everytime he is at work. But knowing the kind of person that he is, I'm sure he envies me as well because I get to witness everything -- the milestones and more -- right before my eyes!
In the Philippines, many of my friends are wishing they could have a longer ML (maternity leave) so they can spend more time with their kids. I can't blame them. Being a full time mum really gives you a certain high :) I am thankful I had this opportunity to take care of Sam and see her grow and achieve milestones for the past 6 months. Minsan lang sila bata, kaya malaki ang pasasalamat ko at naging bahagi ako ng kanilang kamusmusan.
To you our darling, sweetheart, little buddha, dengdeng, andeng, andie, samantha, andrea, sam -- happy 6th month birthday! you and your kuya remain to be the source of our joy and inspiration. we love you!
ps. we will have your cake blowing on the 21st ;)
manners
a former colleague at ateneo shared this link about raising kids with manners and etiquette. it's a good read especially for parents like me. it's a guide and a reminder for me.
so i'm posting it here so i can take a look every now and then and check if i have been doing my share. hopefully, my children will grow up with manners :)
25 Manners Every Kid Should Know By Age 9.
by Parents.com, on Tue May 3, 2011 1:21pm PDT
2096 Comments
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Helping your child master these simple rules of etiquette will get him noticed -- for all the right reasons.
By David Lowry, Ph.D.
Your child's rude 'tude isn't always intentional. Sometimes kids just don't realize it's impolite to interrupt, pick their nose, or loudly observe that the lady walking in front of them has a large behind. And in the hustle and bustle of daily life, busy moms and dads don't always have the time to focus on etiquette. But if you reinforce these 25 must-do manners, you'll raise a polite, kind, well-liked child.-
Manner #1
When asking for something, say "Please."
Manner #2
When receiving something, say "Thank you."
Related: Kid-Made Thank You Notes
Manner #3
Do not interrupt grown-ups who are speaking with each other unless there is an emergency. They will notice you and respond when they are finished talking.
Manner #4
If you do need to get somebody's attention right away, the phrase "excuse me" is the most polite way for you to enter the conversation.
Manner #5
When you have any doubt about doing something, ask permission first. It can save you from many hours of grief later.
Manner #6
The world is not interested in what you dislike. Keep negative opinions to yourself, or between you and your friends, and out of earshot of adults.
Manner #7
Do not comment on other people's physical characteristics unless, of course, it's to compliment them, which is always welcome.
Related: Raise Polite Kids
Manner #8
When people ask you how you are, tell them and then ask them how they are.
Manner #9
When you have spent time at your friend's house, remember to thank his or her parents for having you over and for the good time you had.
Manner #10
Knock on closed doors -- and wait to see if there's a response -- before entering.
Manner #11
When you make a phone call, introduce yourself first and then ask if you can speak with the person you are calling.
Manner #12
Be appreciative and say "thank you" for any gift you receive. In the age of e-mail, a handwritten thank-you note can have a powerful effect.
Related: Print and Color Cards for Birthdays, Thank-Yous and More!
Manner #13
Never use foul language in front of adults. Grown-ups already know all those words, and they find them boring and unpleasant.
Manner #14
Don't call people mean names.
Manner #15
Do not make fun of anyone for any reason. Teasing shows others you are weak, and ganging up on someone else is cruel.
Related: Raise a Compassionate Kid
Manner #16
Even if a play or an assembly is boring, sit through it quietly and pretend that you are interested. The performers and presenters are doing their best.
Manner #17
If you bump into somebody, immediately say "Excuse me."
Related: Quiz: What's Your Parenting Style?
Manner #18
Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze, and don't pick your nose in public.
Related: How to Handle Inappropriate Behavior
Manner #19
As you walk through a door, look to see if you can hold it open for someone else.
Manner #20
If you come across a parent, a teacher, or a neighbor working on something, ask if you can help. If they say "yes," do so -- you may learn something new.
Manner #21
When an adult asks you for a favor, do it without grumbling and with a smile.
Related: Use this Table-Setting Map as a Guide
Manner #22
When someone helps you, say "thank you." That person will likely want to help you again. This is especially true with teachers!
Manner #23
Use eating utensils properly. If you are unsure how to do so, ask your parents to teach you or watch what adults do.
Related: Mrs. McVeigh Weighs in on Proper Utensil Use and More!
Manner #24
Keep a napkin on your lap; use it to wipe your mouth when necessary.
Manner #25
Don't reach for things at the table; ask to have them passed.
See more on teaching manners to your toddlers and preschoolers.
Originally published in the March 2011 issue of Parents magazine.
so i'm posting it here so i can take a look every now and then and check if i have been doing my share. hopefully, my children will grow up with manners :)
25 Manners Every Kid Should Know By Age 9.
by Parents.com, on Tue May 3, 2011 1:21pm PDT
2096 Comments
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Helping your child master these simple rules of etiquette will get him noticed -- for all the right reasons.
By David Lowry, Ph.D.
Your child's rude 'tude isn't always intentional. Sometimes kids just don't realize it's impolite to interrupt, pick their nose, or loudly observe that the lady walking in front of them has a large behind. And in the hustle and bustle of daily life, busy moms and dads don't always have the time to focus on etiquette. But if you reinforce these 25 must-do manners, you'll raise a polite, kind, well-liked child.-
Manner #1
When asking for something, say "Please."
Manner #2
When receiving something, say "Thank you."
Related: Kid-Made Thank You Notes
Manner #3
Do not interrupt grown-ups who are speaking with each other unless there is an emergency. They will notice you and respond when they are finished talking.
Manner #4
If you do need to get somebody's attention right away, the phrase "excuse me" is the most polite way for you to enter the conversation.
Manner #5
When you have any doubt about doing something, ask permission first. It can save you from many hours of grief later.
Manner #6
The world is not interested in what you dislike. Keep negative opinions to yourself, or between you and your friends, and out of earshot of adults.
Manner #7
Do not comment on other people's physical characteristics unless, of course, it's to compliment them, which is always welcome.
Related: Raise Polite Kids
Manner #8
When people ask you how you are, tell them and then ask them how they are.
Manner #9
When you have spent time at your friend's house, remember to thank his or her parents for having you over and for the good time you had.
Manner #10
Knock on closed doors -- and wait to see if there's a response -- before entering.
Manner #11
When you make a phone call, introduce yourself first and then ask if you can speak with the person you are calling.
Manner #12
Be appreciative and say "thank you" for any gift you receive. In the age of e-mail, a handwritten thank-you note can have a powerful effect.
Related: Print and Color Cards for Birthdays, Thank-Yous and More!
Manner #13
Never use foul language in front of adults. Grown-ups already know all those words, and they find them boring and unpleasant.
Manner #14
Don't call people mean names.
Manner #15
Do not make fun of anyone for any reason. Teasing shows others you are weak, and ganging up on someone else is cruel.
Related: Raise a Compassionate Kid
Manner #16
Even if a play or an assembly is boring, sit through it quietly and pretend that you are interested. The performers and presenters are doing their best.
Manner #17
If you bump into somebody, immediately say "Excuse me."
Related: Quiz: What's Your Parenting Style?
Manner #18
Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze, and don't pick your nose in public.
Related: How to Handle Inappropriate Behavior
Manner #19
As you walk through a door, look to see if you can hold it open for someone else.
Manner #20
If you come across a parent, a teacher, or a neighbor working on something, ask if you can help. If they say "yes," do so -- you may learn something new.
Manner #21
When an adult asks you for a favor, do it without grumbling and with a smile.
Related: Use this Table-Setting Map as a Guide
Manner #22
When someone helps you, say "thank you." That person will likely want to help you again. This is especially true with teachers!
Manner #23
Use eating utensils properly. If you are unsure how to do so, ask your parents to teach you or watch what adults do.
Related: Mrs. McVeigh Weighs in on Proper Utensil Use and More!
Manner #24
Keep a napkin on your lap; use it to wipe your mouth when necessary.
Manner #25
Don't reach for things at the table; ask to have them passed.
See more on teaching manners to your toddlers and preschoolers.
Originally published in the March 2011 issue of Parents magazine.
Monday, May 9, 2011
Saving for the Rainy Days
I don't know what is wrong with me but for the past few days something inside me tells me to save and not spend on things that I really don't need.
I came across a book on Abundance a couple of weeks ago. It says there that abundance is not how much you have but appreciating how much you have. I couldn't agree more. I have shared in some of my blog entries before that sometimes I find myself getting scared already because I catch myself buying and buying some more. May it be food, clothes, books, toys for my children. Name it. It's just that there is this urge inside me that just wants to spend! I shared that I felt scared because I knew it wasn't me anymore. And the fact that I was able to buy those things and still have somethin in our pockets. Simply stated, I felt rich. (Rich as compared to what we had before, that will be another blog entry ;))
So when I came across that book, I felt relieved. Probably that is the reason I felt "rich". I felt "rich" because I got to appreciate everything that I have now, I felt we had plenty, and I am very thankful. I know that we are not really rich as compared to the billionaires and millionaires we see around us, nor are we as rich as some of our friends, but I feel rich because I believe that God has granted us much, what we need and sometimes, what we want, and I appreciate all of it.
Now back to saving. I wouldn't want to abuse this feeling "rich" because I know that it is also good to save up for the rainy days. Last week, I came across this feature that gave saving tips for households/families in Aus--cost of living contiue to rise!. One tip was to look and clean up your pantry. I guess it was doable that is why I am doing it. I have this habit of having a plus1 of everything we have at home. Let us say that if I have opened a new bottle of oyster sauce, the next time I am at the shops I will aready buy a new one to be stocked in our pantry, even if I haven't even used up all the oyster sauce I just opened. The reason? I don't want to find myself rushing to the shops if ever I already needed one. Semi-hoarding? hehehe. So the ending? I have a lot of food and cooking ingredients waiting to be opened. The funny thing is, sometimes, it takes more than 3 or 4 months before the old one runs out and I get to finally open the plus1 stock. Or worse, some of them just wait for the expiration date in the pantry and end up in the bin once I find out it has expired already! Such a waste right?
So now, I am dead set to clean up my pantry and save us well. I told this project to hubby and he is supportive of this. I told him we have to eat everything in the pantry first before I buy new ones, which includes chips and his "pulutans." One beauty that I see in this? Not only am I saving but I also get to buy only the food that I really want to eat.
I made a little progress last Friday as I didn't add anything new to the pantry saving us dollars already from our weekly budget :)
yipee! :)
I came across a book on Abundance a couple of weeks ago. It says there that abundance is not how much you have but appreciating how much you have. I couldn't agree more. I have shared in some of my blog entries before that sometimes I find myself getting scared already because I catch myself buying and buying some more. May it be food, clothes, books, toys for my children. Name it. It's just that there is this urge inside me that just wants to spend! I shared that I felt scared because I knew it wasn't me anymore. And the fact that I was able to buy those things and still have somethin in our pockets. Simply stated, I felt rich. (Rich as compared to what we had before, that will be another blog entry ;))
So when I came across that book, I felt relieved. Probably that is the reason I felt "rich". I felt "rich" because I got to appreciate everything that I have now, I felt we had plenty, and I am very thankful. I know that we are not really rich as compared to the billionaires and millionaires we see around us, nor are we as rich as some of our friends, but I feel rich because I believe that God has granted us much, what we need and sometimes, what we want, and I appreciate all of it.
Now back to saving. I wouldn't want to abuse this feeling "rich" because I know that it is also good to save up for the rainy days. Last week, I came across this feature that gave saving tips for households/families in Aus--cost of living contiue to rise!. One tip was to look and clean up your pantry. I guess it was doable that is why I am doing it. I have this habit of having a plus1 of everything we have at home. Let us say that if I have opened a new bottle of oyster sauce, the next time I am at the shops I will aready buy a new one to be stocked in our pantry, even if I haven't even used up all the oyster sauce I just opened. The reason? I don't want to find myself rushing to the shops if ever I already needed one. Semi-hoarding? hehehe. So the ending? I have a lot of food and cooking ingredients waiting to be opened. The funny thing is, sometimes, it takes more than 3 or 4 months before the old one runs out and I get to finally open the plus1 stock. Or worse, some of them just wait for the expiration date in the pantry and end up in the bin once I find out it has expired already! Such a waste right?
So now, I am dead set to clean up my pantry and save us well. I told this project to hubby and he is supportive of this. I told him we have to eat everything in the pantry first before I buy new ones, which includes chips and his "pulutans." One beauty that I see in this? Not only am I saving but I also get to buy only the food that I really want to eat.
I made a little progress last Friday as I didn't add anything new to the pantry saving us dollars already from our weekly budget :)
yipee! :)
Friday, May 6, 2011
self-control :)
this is not about being patient. it's about controlling my urge to spend, again :) and i think i passed it again :)
for days now, alvin has been asking me what anniversary present and mother's day present i want him to give me. many choices. but i seriously considered aromatherapy sessionS (yes, with S lol!) and jewelry (hmmm again?!). yup.
yesterday and today, we were so close to buying it but i managed to stop myself from giving him the go-signal. i am thankful that we have extras but in cases like these, i usually, always, find myself still thinking a zillion times if i really need it or i just want it. alvin is generous to give them to me but then again, it's hard-earned money right? and besides, i might as well save it for the rainy days :)
for one, i can just use our private health fund card for the massages, after all we've been paying it regularly, weekly. as for the jewelry? at prsent, i refrain from using/wearing too much as I always have Sam with me. it's either she ends up scratched or i end up scratched from the bracelets, earrings and sometimes the watch that i wear. and she might end up tugging my necklace as well. so jewelry is not an immediate need.
i am proud of myself :) guilt-free! :)
for days now, alvin has been asking me what anniversary present and mother's day present i want him to give me. many choices. but i seriously considered aromatherapy sessionS (yes, with S lol!) and jewelry (hmmm again?!). yup.
yesterday and today, we were so close to buying it but i managed to stop myself from giving him the go-signal. i am thankful that we have extras but in cases like these, i usually, always, find myself still thinking a zillion times if i really need it or i just want it. alvin is generous to give them to me but then again, it's hard-earned money right? and besides, i might as well save it for the rainy days :)
for one, i can just use our private health fund card for the massages, after all we've been paying it regularly, weekly. as for the jewelry? at prsent, i refrain from using/wearing too much as I always have Sam with me. it's either she ends up scratched or i end up scratched from the bracelets, earrings and sometimes the watch that i wear. and she might end up tugging my necklace as well. so jewelry is not an immediate need.
i am proud of myself :) guilt-free! :)
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
It's in the Genes?
Liam had their mother's day program this morning. Last night up until this morning he kept on singing Advanced Australia Fair -- the national anthem of Australia. He told me they will be singing it this morning.
Now when it was time for them to sing (programs here are VERY simple as compared to Manila. They don't even have a stage, props, etc)...parents are just standing up, while the kids sat on their corner, Liam did not sing! I was recording it because I wanted to show his singing to his Papa when he gets home from work. But no! After three or was it four songs, he didn't join them. He was just sitting there observing. Hands in his pockets. He's telling me something, I thought he was telling me: "I'm tired." When he looks at me I try to give him encouranging glances to sing, but no effect. Well, let's just say the last straw was when they had the last song and this time it was an action song, everyone stood up, except for him!
When the class finished with their songs, I went to him (to tell him as well that I and his sister would have to go and leave him now because we still had to go to Sam's swimming lessons) and asked him what was wrong. His reply was: "I told you Mama, I was thirsty." Head bowing down. I whispered I'm sorry and told him it was alright and I bid goodbye. He was ok after that. When his teacher called his name for the class roll, he now responded.
Two things: First, was it my fault he did not perform well? I remember him acting like this way during their Christmas concert at Yogies last December. The thing was after we gave him water and food during the break, he was already performing well and happily! So should I have given him water this morning so I could have seen what I wanted to see?
Second: Is it in the genes? I will not be surprised if he suddenly becomes shy and tongue tied and quiet when there are a lot of people he is not familiar with. Why? Alvin is like that (though he has improvd already LOL). And Liam's grandparents, uncles and aunts. All in the Balintec family are like that. Now, how can I beat that? Sometimes, it's ok with me when Alvin acts up like that, but at other times (and more) I am wishing he and they weren't. Their silence/quietness is just too much. Sometimes I feel they need to step up and go out of their shells already!
So now, I am praying Liam will outgrow his shyness, if ever it is case number 2. But I am praying, that it's just case number 1. Really, I'd rather take the blame than him to be growing up being extremely quiet, all because it is in his genes!
Now when it was time for them to sing (programs here are VERY simple as compared to Manila. They don't even have a stage, props, etc)...parents are just standing up, while the kids sat on their corner, Liam did not sing! I was recording it because I wanted to show his singing to his Papa when he gets home from work. But no! After three or was it four songs, he didn't join them. He was just sitting there observing. Hands in his pockets. He's telling me something, I thought he was telling me: "I'm tired." When he looks at me I try to give him encouranging glances to sing, but no effect. Well, let's just say the last straw was when they had the last song and this time it was an action song, everyone stood up, except for him!
When the class finished with their songs, I went to him (to tell him as well that I and his sister would have to go and leave him now because we still had to go to Sam's swimming lessons) and asked him what was wrong. His reply was: "I told you Mama, I was thirsty." Head bowing down. I whispered I'm sorry and told him it was alright and I bid goodbye. He was ok after that. When his teacher called his name for the class roll, he now responded.
Two things: First, was it my fault he did not perform well? I remember him acting like this way during their Christmas concert at Yogies last December. The thing was after we gave him water and food during the break, he was already performing well and happily! So should I have given him water this morning so I could have seen what I wanted to see?
Second: Is it in the genes? I will not be surprised if he suddenly becomes shy and tongue tied and quiet when there are a lot of people he is not familiar with. Why? Alvin is like that (though he has improvd already LOL). And Liam's grandparents, uncles and aunts. All in the Balintec family are like that. Now, how can I beat that? Sometimes, it's ok with me when Alvin acts up like that, but at other times (and more) I am wishing he and they weren't. Their silence/quietness is just too much. Sometimes I feel they need to step up and go out of their shells already!
So now, I am praying Liam will outgrow his shyness, if ever it is case number 2. But I am praying, that it's just case number 1. Really, I'd rather take the blame than him to be growing up being extremely quiet, all because it is in his genes!
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