I have come across several writers and authors but one who really stands out on my list is Maricel-Laxa Pangilinan.
I am not a fan of the movie-actress, but I am a fan of the mom, wife and writer. She is an inspiration.
I am lucky to have a copy of the book of the first compilation of her articles. It was given to me as a gift by hubby when our relationship was barely a year old. I guess giving me that book that dealt with motherhood, marriage, relationships was a big proof that Alvin was for keeps :D Reading that book inspired me, heaps!
I knew she had a column with the Philippine Star every Tuesday. And I really looked forward to reading it. But, I lost touch with her articles when we migrated here. Until today. A friend, who as a response to the newest and hottest issue in the web about Language and Learning (James Soriano issue), shared a link that led to her column! Yipee! We're reconnected!
I can't wait to catch up with the previous articles she has written and I wasn't able to read.
She was an inspiration and she continues to be one :D
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Monday, August 29, 2011
Slowly Coming Out of His Shell
In my blog entry entitled: "In the Genes?" I wrote about my frustration and fear on my son taking after his Papa's shyness.
Well, it seems that I will be proven wrong (happy to be!).
After that blog entry, we were able to attend one birthday party that shocked both me and Alvin. You see, the party host was calling each of the kids to showcase their talent. I thought my little boy will back out at the last minute like what he used to do, but no! He performed a dance number ala Justice Crew! Breakdance in other words! Alvin and I were so shocked to see him dance in front of the other guests and kids! But we were happy. I was just thinking what my son was thinking so he can overcome his fear and shyness!
Yesterday, at the CFC anniversary, the kids had a part in our Chapter presentation. We were not able to attend any session on the practices that were called so we were thinking that Liam will not join the presentation anymore. But he did. In front of other titos and titas, he managed to overcome his fear and shyness and was able to perform again (along with the other kids, and hey, all they needed to do was to do karate steps ;) :D
My son is slowly coming out of his shell. I am glad.
Well, it seems that I will be proven wrong (happy to be!).
After that blog entry, we were able to attend one birthday party that shocked both me and Alvin. You see, the party host was calling each of the kids to showcase their talent. I thought my little boy will back out at the last minute like what he used to do, but no! He performed a dance number ala Justice Crew! Breakdance in other words! Alvin and I were so shocked to see him dance in front of the other guests and kids! But we were happy. I was just thinking what my son was thinking so he can overcome his fear and shyness!
Yesterday, at the CFC anniversary, the kids had a part in our Chapter presentation. We were not able to attend any session on the practices that were called so we were thinking that Liam will not join the presentation anymore. But he did. In front of other titos and titas, he managed to overcome his fear and shyness and was able to perform again (along with the other kids, and hey, all they needed to do was to do karate steps ;) :D
My son is slowly coming out of his shell. I am glad.
Friday, August 26, 2011
All Piled Up!
Sam got sick Sunday. Up until yesterday, she had an episode of throwing up.
Wednesday, I felt tired and realized that since Friday of last week, part of my daily routine was to do the laundry! Just for this week, I did the laundry for 6 days! Of course, this week was a special case because we had an unusual number of clothes that needed cleaning due to Sam being sick.
It was unfortunate that she had to throw up on me (yes, it was always on me!) and her poo overflowing from her nappy and Liam also getting sick and I deciding to wash and keep two of our comforters (as it will already be Spring next week)...so all I did was wash, wash, wash and wash!
Of course we have a washing machine but it does still take time to sort the clothes, put them in the washing machine, put soap and the other chem needed, hang them, keeping an eye on the sky if it rains and checking on the clothes if they have dried already or getting them and folding them neatly, sorting the ones that needs to be ironed and putting the ones I have folded in the proper cabinets. Whew!
So I have decided to cut this cycle! Aside from saving on our water and electricity bill, I think I deserve to have more free time to do other things aside from the ones I just listed above!
And so starting this week, I will only change Sam and Liam's PJ's every Fridays and not every two days anymore. Anyways, they only get to wear them during sleep. I will also let Liam use his "pambahay" for 2-3 days now (depending on how hot it is and depending on his activities for the day), because at present he changes it everyday! Same goes for Sam. And I will let Liam reuse his jeans and shorts for 2-3 times as well before I put it in the hamper (again, depends on the circumstances). I guess there is no one to blame but me. I let them change their clothes everyday even if they didn't go out or perspired too much. I also add to the load of our laundry since I change my top everytime I start smelling like milk (I'm sorry I just can't handle the smell!) and my top starts to get wet (because of milk as well) since I am still breastfeeding Sam. Last but not the least, I should learn how to take that the sight of our hamper all filled up with dirty clothes does not mean I need to empty it quickly!
Yes, I need to do household chores, but to do laundry almost every day of the week, is just too much! I am giving myself a break!
Wednesday, I felt tired and realized that since Friday of last week, part of my daily routine was to do the laundry! Just for this week, I did the laundry for 6 days! Of course, this week was a special case because we had an unusual number of clothes that needed cleaning due to Sam being sick.
It was unfortunate that she had to throw up on me (yes, it was always on me!) and her poo overflowing from her nappy and Liam also getting sick and I deciding to wash and keep two of our comforters (as it will already be Spring next week)...so all I did was wash, wash, wash and wash!
Of course we have a washing machine but it does still take time to sort the clothes, put them in the washing machine, put soap and the other chem needed, hang them, keeping an eye on the sky if it rains and checking on the clothes if they have dried already or getting them and folding them neatly, sorting the ones that needs to be ironed and putting the ones I have folded in the proper cabinets. Whew!
So I have decided to cut this cycle! Aside from saving on our water and electricity bill, I think I deserve to have more free time to do other things aside from the ones I just listed above!
And so starting this week, I will only change Sam and Liam's PJ's every Fridays and not every two days anymore. Anyways, they only get to wear them during sleep. I will also let Liam use his "pambahay" for 2-3 days now (depending on how hot it is and depending on his activities for the day), because at present he changes it everyday! Same goes for Sam. And I will let Liam reuse his jeans and shorts for 2-3 times as well before I put it in the hamper (again, depends on the circumstances). I guess there is no one to blame but me. I let them change their clothes everyday even if they didn't go out or perspired too much. I also add to the load of our laundry since I change my top everytime I start smelling like milk (I'm sorry I just can't handle the smell!) and my top starts to get wet (because of milk as well) since I am still breastfeeding Sam. Last but not the least, I should learn how to take that the sight of our hamper all filled up with dirty clothes does not mean I need to empty it quickly!
Yes, I need to do household chores, but to do laundry almost every day of the week, is just too much! I am giving myself a break!
Getting Confused
Like what I have mentioned in my previous blog, parenting and raising kids can be a daunting task. Parenting does not come with a handbook and so, when I come across some articles and books that try to help me (and my hubby) in raising our children, I (we) try our best to do it, even if sometimes we think it is just impossible!
Well, the past few weeks, I have been bombarded with A LOT of parenting articles. Article after article, I was trying to remember the most important details and things were becoming more complicated. I found myself getting confused as I encountered articles contradicting one another. Like for example -- the use of rewards. I have always been taught that giving rewards was a positive reinforcer, but I came across one article that says otherwise.
With these conflicting styles and tips, I came to realization that:
a. I should be critical with everything that is being given to me in the articles, links or books. I shouldn't take everything as is. I should know what to take from these articles. Since I have more time to read these articles, I usually share it with my husband and later on discuss the article. I guess part of being critical is for us to discuss as well, if it applies to us and to our kids.
b. There is no perfect formula for becoming the "best" parents. We try our best to teach them values and raise them up well, but we will still have to wait if all our efforts will pay off when our kids have finally grown-up. I guess with all the articles that I have come across, I and my husband find ourselves mixing the styles.
Parenting they say is a case of hit and miss. But as parents, as much as possible, you wouldn't want to miss, as whatever mistake we commit in raising our kids, can make or break them and their future. Which directs me now to my most important realization:
Parenting is a leap of faith. We cannot be the "perfect" and the "best" parents we hope that we can be because it is hard, VERY HARD. Try as we might, we still get bad days, sad days,mad days, challenging days, and tiring days.We cannot be with our kids 24/7, all day every day, every minute of their lives. We cannot control their emotions and their decisions. We can try our best, OUR VERY BEST, but might still end up failing in the future. This is now where Faith comes in. We can pray for them and for ourselves.
We can pray for our daily decisions as parents. That our decisions will not be clouded by our emotions. That what we do is really the best for them. That they will eventually make the right choices all the time. That they will grow up well and good. We can only do so much. But praying for them and for ourselves will never be too much.
Yes, I still read articles and parenting books, but I now know better :)
Well, the past few weeks, I have been bombarded with A LOT of parenting articles. Article after article, I was trying to remember the most important details and things were becoming more complicated. I found myself getting confused as I encountered articles contradicting one another. Like for example -- the use of rewards. I have always been taught that giving rewards was a positive reinforcer, but I came across one article that says otherwise.
With these conflicting styles and tips, I came to realization that:
a. I should be critical with everything that is being given to me in the articles, links or books. I shouldn't take everything as is. I should know what to take from these articles. Since I have more time to read these articles, I usually share it with my husband and later on discuss the article. I guess part of being critical is for us to discuss as well, if it applies to us and to our kids.
b. There is no perfect formula for becoming the "best" parents. We try our best to teach them values and raise them up well, but we will still have to wait if all our efforts will pay off when our kids have finally grown-up. I guess with all the articles that I have come across, I and my husband find ourselves mixing the styles.
Parenting they say is a case of hit and miss. But as parents, as much as possible, you wouldn't want to miss, as whatever mistake we commit in raising our kids, can make or break them and their future. Which directs me now to my most important realization:
Parenting is a leap of faith. We cannot be the "perfect" and the "best" parents we hope that we can be because it is hard, VERY HARD. Try as we might, we still get bad days, sad days,mad days, challenging days, and tiring days.We cannot be with our kids 24/7, all day every day, every minute of their lives. We cannot control their emotions and their decisions. We can try our best, OUR VERY BEST, but might still end up failing in the future. This is now where Faith comes in. We can pray for them and for ourselves.
We can pray for our daily decisions as parents. That our decisions will not be clouded by our emotions. That what we do is really the best for them. That they will eventually make the right choices all the time. That they will grow up well and good. We can only do so much. But praying for them and for ourselves will never be too much.
Yes, I still read articles and parenting books, but I now know better :)
Monday, August 22, 2011
The More Patient One
Parenting is hard. That is why I think:
Parenting is partnership.
I remember reading an article by Lucy Torres- Gomez way, way back in Manila that between the two of them, it's her hubby, Richard Gomez, who is the more patient and cooler one when it comes to dealing with their daughter, Juliana's misdemeanors.
Well, guess what, it's totally the same with us! (As if it is still a surprise?! LOL)
They say when you pray to God for patience, He doesn't make you one outright, but He gives you opportunities to be patient.
Raising kids is definitely one big opportunity to practice patience!
The past few days, I have found myself always raising my voice with Liam, especially if he doesn't do what I ask him to do, at once. In short, we have this power struggle at home. I don't know if I flare up easily because I'm the one with them (Liam and Sam) almost the entire day (and I'm already at my wits end) and I have to do a lot of other stuff at home aside from taking care of them.
It never ceases to amaze me when I see how Alvin does it with Liam, without any "threats" and a loud voice. I remember how Lucy described her hubby everytime I see Alvin too, patiently and very calmly explaining to Liam why we are asking him to do something); or, trying to process something (like giving up easily if he finds one task hard). Example, one of the reasons of our fights is the TV! Recently, he has been watching the TV longer and more frequently than before. So when I ask him to do something, he gets "mad" and throws on a temper tantrum because he doesn't want to get disturbed! Oh yes, he does follow me but he is nagdadabog. Of course, I would want as much as possible that he follows me without the face and the stomping of feet! (Is this my karma, Mama Lynn?)
Well, writing everything here will take time. But to make the long story short, I am thankful that Alvin decided to become involved in raising up our children, because there are some fathers there who think that providing for their family is their only responsibility.
I am the teacher and teachers are supposed to be patient with kids. But, between the two of us, Alvin is the more patient one (and I'm glad he is).
Parenting is partnership.
I remember reading an article by Lucy Torres- Gomez way, way back in Manila that between the two of them, it's her hubby, Richard Gomez, who is the more patient and cooler one when it comes to dealing with their daughter, Juliana's misdemeanors.
Well, guess what, it's totally the same with us! (As if it is still a surprise?! LOL)
They say when you pray to God for patience, He doesn't make you one outright, but He gives you opportunities to be patient.
Raising kids is definitely one big opportunity to practice patience!
The past few days, I have found myself always raising my voice with Liam, especially if he doesn't do what I ask him to do, at once. In short, we have this power struggle at home. I don't know if I flare up easily because I'm the one with them (Liam and Sam) almost the entire day (and I'm already at my wits end) and I have to do a lot of other stuff at home aside from taking care of them.
It never ceases to amaze me when I see how Alvin does it with Liam, without any "threats" and a loud voice. I remember how Lucy described her hubby everytime I see Alvin too, patiently and very calmly explaining to Liam why we are asking him to do something); or, trying to process something (like giving up easily if he finds one task hard). Example, one of the reasons of our fights is the TV! Recently, he has been watching the TV longer and more frequently than before. So when I ask him to do something, he gets "mad" and throws on a temper tantrum because he doesn't want to get disturbed! Oh yes, he does follow me but he is nagdadabog. Of course, I would want as much as possible that he follows me without the face and the stomping of feet! (Is this my karma, Mama Lynn?)
Well, writing everything here will take time. But to make the long story short, I am thankful that Alvin decided to become involved in raising up our children, because there are some fathers there who think that providing for their family is their only responsibility.
I am the teacher and teachers are supposed to be patient with kids. But, between the two of us, Alvin is the more patient one (and I'm glad he is).
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Back to Reading
Now that I am done with my schooling, I can now go back and get to read books, not because I have to, but because I want to.
Thanks to good libraries I got to borrow some good books today.
But I'm starting off with this:
There are three books lined up after this: Mao's Last Dance, How to Improve Your Grammar and Ten Years After: Sweet Valley High Confidential. I decided to just borrow instead of buying myself a copy. It will be additional savings and less clutter at home. :D
I'm taking a break from parenting books as recently, I have been reading a lot and they are already confusing me :D But that will be another blog entry. As for now, I'm back to one of my favorite hobbies, I'm back to reading :D
Thanks to good libraries I got to borrow some good books today.
But I'm starting off with this:
There are three books lined up after this: Mao's Last Dance, How to Improve Your Grammar and Ten Years After: Sweet Valley High Confidential. I decided to just borrow instead of buying myself a copy. It will be additional savings and less clutter at home. :D
I'm taking a break from parenting books as recently, I have been reading a lot and they are already confusing me :D But that will be another blog entry. As for now, I'm back to one of my favorite hobbies, I'm back to reading :D
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Happy Stories
Now that I have more "free" time, I think I will be blogging more often :D
But that is not what I am to write about. This morning there were three funny incidents at home.
First, the issue on brownout. This morning, after Liam ate breakfast, he asked permission if he can watch TV. I gave him the go signal. After ten minutes, we had a brownout! After almost three years of stay here, it was our first time to experience such. It lasted only for 5 minutes but I bet it felt longer for my little boy. When the TV shut off, he thought I turned it off. I had a hard time explaining the concept of brownout to Liam because as I have mentioned, it was his first time to experience it. After all my efforts, he concluded that our house was broken.
After I gave Liam a bath, I asked him to put on his socks. He played a bit and decided to put on his socks just when I was drying his sister. I accidentally hit his hair which he combed neatly all by himself. He got "mad" at me for hitting his hair. Natawa ako, ang cute kasi niya na galit at yung dahilan e nagulo kasi yung buhok niya hehe . I told him I was sorry and told him it was an accident.
He pretended to have tantrums, went out of the bathroom and went inside again using our indoor closet door. He was still holding his other sock when he asked me: "Mama, did you see my other sock?" I laughed and he laughed as well after he realized that he already put on his left sock! We had a good laugh :D
The next one was when I accidentally hit his hair for the 3rd time, he told me: "Mama ha, that is the last time, ok?" Talaga naman! I had a good laugh after he said that to me. I don't know, I guess he really is growing up na :C
But that is not what I am to write about. This morning there were three funny incidents at home.
First, the issue on brownout. This morning, after Liam ate breakfast, he asked permission if he can watch TV. I gave him the go signal. After ten minutes, we had a brownout! After almost three years of stay here, it was our first time to experience such. It lasted only for 5 minutes but I bet it felt longer for my little boy. When the TV shut off, he thought I turned it off. I had a hard time explaining the concept of brownout to Liam because as I have mentioned, it was his first time to experience it. After all my efforts, he concluded that our house was broken.
After I gave Liam a bath, I asked him to put on his socks. He played a bit and decided to put on his socks just when I was drying his sister. I accidentally hit his hair which he combed neatly all by himself. He got "mad" at me for hitting his hair. Natawa ako, ang cute kasi niya na galit at yung dahilan e nagulo kasi yung buhok niya hehe . I told him I was sorry and told him it was an accident.
He pretended to have tantrums, went out of the bathroom and went inside again using our indoor closet door. He was still holding his other sock when he asked me: "Mama, did you see my other sock?" I laughed and he laughed as well after he realized that he already put on his left sock! We had a good laugh :D
The next one was when I accidentally hit his hair for the 3rd time, he told me: "Mama ha, that is the last time, ok?" Talaga naman! I had a good laugh after he said that to me. I don't know, I guess he really is growing up na :C
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
And It's Done!
Fin.
I can't believe that I'm finally done with my two-year certificate course! I received my last assessed requirement yesterday from my teacher and all I have to do is to just wait for our graduation rites on December 7.
I feel good not only because I can finally relax and enjoy our holidays in Manila but more so, because that course is a testimony of God's goodness.
I wanted to give up even before I even started it! I felt that two years of studying will be two VERY LONG years.
I guess my expriences with my Master's degree had some influence with my negative feelings at the start. You see, I almost quit towards the end of my Master's degree (Thesis writing) because of several factors. Thank goodness I had a former colleague who was so feisty and kept on pushing me. In the end, I was able to finish it and my MA degree helped me with my present accreditation standing/classification with CEO Parramatta.
I discovered this Certificate Course by accident. I think it was September or October of 2009 when I was trying to apply for a full-time work, "Something" or "Someone" put this thought in my head: "Maybe one reason why I can't find a full-time teaching position in the Catholic schools is because I didn't have enough academic credentials to teach it. And as a full-time primary school teacher, you ought to teach REd to your classes." To make the story short, I found myself browsing and looking for a school where I can take units. I was scared and tired even before I started. I didn't want to go back to school, again. Not yet! My MA experiences were still fresh! But God works in ways we don't understand. One click went to another and voila! I found this Certificate Course by the Institite for Mission, right here in Blacktown. Its set-up is like an Open University and the good thing about it was, it was a lot cheaper than me getting my degree in a Catholic University :)
I started with the course January 2010 and met with my group twice every term. Every meeting we had to come up with a paper which was based on the readings that we got at the start of each module. The first term was relatively easy because I only had Liam then to care of. But the second term was a different story. I got pregnant with Sam and as you all know by now, I had a very difficult 1st trimester. I wanted to quit. I told Alvin that I'll just re-enrol again in the course for SY 2011-2012. But Alvin was an angel (and still is!) and told me to do all possible means first before quitting. So I e-mailed my teachers and moderators asking them if it was alright that I submit my paper requirements LATER or after the due dates because of my condition and that I might get to skip one or two sessions. And what do you know, that allowed me and even wished me and my bub well!
I thank God I didn't quit because as soon as I felt much better and was able to submit my pending requirements, I got an email from CEO Parramatta telling us (students) that starting SY 2011-2012, IFM won't be offering the course anymore and that if we needed to get a Certificate we had to do it through the University! So my batch, is the last batch of IFM! I was thanking the heavens when I read that, thanking that I didn't quit or else, I would be starting all over again, be paying a much higher fee (I was only paying $80 per module but in the Uni, we're talking about thousand$ for each term!) and be more stressed (as its set-up is not like an Open U and the nearest University is in Strathfield).
For the last module, I was a bit apprehensive to ask permission if I can do the requirements in advance as the last term meetings coincides with our holidays in Manila. I was afraid my teachers won't allow me and the harder part was I needed to attend an Orientation prior the start of the last module. But again, prayers were answered! My teacher for the last module even went out of her way to drive to Blacktown so she can give me the Orientation we students will be having this September!
Even after I have given birth to Sam, I continued with the course. It was really a challenge for me to juggle my duties and responsibilities as a wife, a mum and as a student. Not to mention still be sane and enjoy life! Pero, kaya!
I will sound as if I just won an acting award, but I really thank God for the people whom He has given as instruments for His blessings. I wouldn't have done it without them. Special mention to hubby and my kids who were my driving force and inspirations. Of course, to my teachers for their understanding (imagine Sam was in tow everytime I had a class meeting).
Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam!
I can't believe that I'm finally done with my two-year certificate course! I received my last assessed requirement yesterday from my teacher and all I have to do is to just wait for our graduation rites on December 7.
I feel good not only because I can finally relax and enjoy our holidays in Manila but more so, because that course is a testimony of God's goodness.
I wanted to give up even before I even started it! I felt that two years of studying will be two VERY LONG years.
I guess my expriences with my Master's degree had some influence with my negative feelings at the start. You see, I almost quit towards the end of my Master's degree (Thesis writing) because of several factors. Thank goodness I had a former colleague who was so feisty and kept on pushing me. In the end, I was able to finish it and my MA degree helped me with my present accreditation standing/classification with CEO Parramatta.
I discovered this Certificate Course by accident. I think it was September or October of 2009 when I was trying to apply for a full-time work, "Something" or "Someone" put this thought in my head: "Maybe one reason why I can't find a full-time teaching position in the Catholic schools is because I didn't have enough academic credentials to teach it. And as a full-time primary school teacher, you ought to teach REd to your classes." To make the story short, I found myself browsing and looking for a school where I can take units. I was scared and tired even before I started. I didn't want to go back to school, again. Not yet! My MA experiences were still fresh! But God works in ways we don't understand. One click went to another and voila! I found this Certificate Course by the Institite for Mission, right here in Blacktown. Its set-up is like an Open University and the good thing about it was, it was a lot cheaper than me getting my degree in a Catholic University :)
I started with the course January 2010 and met with my group twice every term. Every meeting we had to come up with a paper which was based on the readings that we got at the start of each module. The first term was relatively easy because I only had Liam then to care of. But the second term was a different story. I got pregnant with Sam and as you all know by now, I had a very difficult 1st trimester. I wanted to quit. I told Alvin that I'll just re-enrol again in the course for SY 2011-2012. But Alvin was an angel (and still is!) and told me to do all possible means first before quitting. So I e-mailed my teachers and moderators asking them if it was alright that I submit my paper requirements LATER or after the due dates because of my condition and that I might get to skip one or two sessions. And what do you know, that allowed me and even wished me and my bub well!
I thank God I didn't quit because as soon as I felt much better and was able to submit my pending requirements, I got an email from CEO Parramatta telling us (students) that starting SY 2011-2012, IFM won't be offering the course anymore and that if we needed to get a Certificate we had to do it through the University! So my batch, is the last batch of IFM! I was thanking the heavens when I read that, thanking that I didn't quit or else, I would be starting all over again, be paying a much higher fee (I was only paying $80 per module but in the Uni, we're talking about thousand$ for each term!) and be more stressed (as its set-up is not like an Open U and the nearest University is in Strathfield).
For the last module, I was a bit apprehensive to ask permission if I can do the requirements in advance as the last term meetings coincides with our holidays in Manila. I was afraid my teachers won't allow me and the harder part was I needed to attend an Orientation prior the start of the last module. But again, prayers were answered! My teacher for the last module even went out of her way to drive to Blacktown so she can give me the Orientation we students will be having this September!
Even after I have given birth to Sam, I continued with the course. It was really a challenge for me to juggle my duties and responsibilities as a wife, a mum and as a student. Not to mention still be sane and enjoy life! Pero, kaya!
I will sound as if I just won an acting award, but I really thank God for the people whom He has given as instruments for His blessings. I wouldn't have done it without them. Special mention to hubby and my kids who were my driving force and inspirations. Of course, to my teachers for their understanding (imagine Sam was in tow everytime I had a class meeting).
Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam!
Saturday, August 13, 2011
Processing
Process.
I first encountered the word when I was still teaching at the Ateneo Grade School. We often used this word to evaluate and explain, reason out and teach our students valuable lessons from the experiences that they had, both bad and good, in school. It was a must especially in times where we encountered some problems or conflicts inside the classroom.
So, why am I writing about it now?
Well, last Friday, Liam was a bit upset because he "lost" in a Wii game with a son of a family friend. He only placed second from his Kuya, who is much older than him.
It was only when we got home when he cried his heart out and vented out his frustration for this recent experience. I had to process it. Alvin had to process it as well with him.
It was a challenging task for the two of us (Alvin and I) because we were flooded with all the tips and advices of things we should and should not tell our kids, based on articles and seminars we have atteneded. It was a challenging and tiring task, it was almost 12 midnight and Liam still didn't want to rest the issue even if I and his Papa took turns already in explaining and processing the experience with him.
I know this is just one of the many more experiences to come that will require processing on our part, so he can learn a lesson and for us to impart the values we want him to grow up with.
Proves once again how hard and challenging it is to become a parent and to raise children.
I first encountered the word when I was still teaching at the Ateneo Grade School. We often used this word to evaluate and explain, reason out and teach our students valuable lessons from the experiences that they had, both bad and good, in school. It was a must especially in times where we encountered some problems or conflicts inside the classroom.
So, why am I writing about it now?
Well, last Friday, Liam was a bit upset because he "lost" in a Wii game with a son of a family friend. He only placed second from his Kuya, who is much older than him.
It was only when we got home when he cried his heart out and vented out his frustration for this recent experience. I had to process it. Alvin had to process it as well with him.
It was a challenging task for the two of us (Alvin and I) because we were flooded with all the tips and advices of things we should and should not tell our kids, based on articles and seminars we have atteneded. It was a challenging and tiring task, it was almost 12 midnight and Liam still didn't want to rest the issue even if I and his Papa took turns already in explaining and processing the experience with him.
I know this is just one of the many more experiences to come that will require processing on our part, so he can learn a lesson and for us to impart the values we want him to grow up with.
Proves once again how hard and challenging it is to become a parent and to raise children.
Thursday, August 11, 2011
OA sa Aga!
I can't hide my excitement! :)
I'm done with my final paper and is just in the process of reviewing it before I submit it. Next week, I will attend my last class :) Thank you, Lord!
I started pooling the clothes which we will be using for our holidays. We plan to just bring 7 sets of clothes (for going out), 2 sets of sleepwear and 2 sets of pambahay, and of course our swimming attires. We think this should be enough, because we're sure that we will be buying a few new clothes for us and many for the kids wehehe. I asked my mom not to send anymore the new clothes she just bought for the kids and to just wait for us, saving us additional kg from our luggages. I can also just borrow clothes from my sister hehehe. We plan to buy Sam's party dress in Manila. I still haven't decided what to buy her. Anyway, I have a lot to choose from in Manila. That I am sure of. A huge task awaits me as I start to pack lightly for our flight. Most of the stuff that Alvin will be bringing home are additional pasalubongs and the chocolates we will be using as adult souvenirs for Sam's party. :) We decided that before we fly to Manila, I have already packed his luggages as well.
I need to distract myself because I know if I pack this early I might end up forgetting something, so everything is just on a pile on our extra room. It's a mess, alright!
To date, I have booked our hotel in Cebu. In the process of choosing the best deal for our Cebu City tour. This part of our trip will be another blog entry :)
Sam's party venue has been booked. Oh, I forgot to mention that I was finally able to talk with the person-in-charge and got a date for food tasting for Caterer B and for ocular inspection. Yipee! I also got the rates for the food carts ;)
I have yet to book my date with the "salon" (yes, finally, my hair will get its much needed treatment/s!) and the derma and the spa. :)
Alvin's ticket will be issued before the end of the month (keeping my fingers crossed).
There are still a lot of to-dos but I will do it a week at a time :)
For now, I will distract myself by wrapping the Christmas presents I have already bought early this year for family and friends based here in Sydney. Hehe OA sa aga no! Well, that's me.
I'm done with my final paper and is just in the process of reviewing it before I submit it. Next week, I will attend my last class :) Thank you, Lord!
I started pooling the clothes which we will be using for our holidays. We plan to just bring 7 sets of clothes (for going out), 2 sets of sleepwear and 2 sets of pambahay, and of course our swimming attires. We think this should be enough, because we're sure that we will be buying a few new clothes for us and many for the kids wehehe. I asked my mom not to send anymore the new clothes she just bought for the kids and to just wait for us, saving us additional kg from our luggages. I can also just borrow clothes from my sister hehehe. We plan to buy Sam's party dress in Manila. I still haven't decided what to buy her. Anyway, I have a lot to choose from in Manila. That I am sure of. A huge task awaits me as I start to pack lightly for our flight. Most of the stuff that Alvin will be bringing home are additional pasalubongs and the chocolates we will be using as adult souvenirs for Sam's party. :) We decided that before we fly to Manila, I have already packed his luggages as well.
I need to distract myself because I know if I pack this early I might end up forgetting something, so everything is just on a pile on our extra room. It's a mess, alright!
To date, I have booked our hotel in Cebu. In the process of choosing the best deal for our Cebu City tour. This part of our trip will be another blog entry :)
Sam's party venue has been booked. Oh, I forgot to mention that I was finally able to talk with the person-in-charge and got a date for food tasting for Caterer B and for ocular inspection. Yipee! I also got the rates for the food carts ;)
I have yet to book my date with the "salon" (yes, finally, my hair will get its much needed treatment/s!) and the derma and the spa. :)
Alvin's ticket will be issued before the end of the month (keeping my fingers crossed).
There are still a lot of to-dos but I will do it a week at a time :)
For now, I will distract myself by wrapping the Christmas presents I have already bought early this year for family and friends based here in Sydney. Hehe OA sa aga no! Well, that's me.
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Liam's Progress in Reading (and Spelling)
Early this year, I started my mini-experiment. Teaching my son how to read and spell simple words. His first sight word was "the." Now, we don't have any problems with the word, he can easily recognize and read it when he sees it on magazines and newspapers.
For a time, I got distracted and lost my enthusiasm -- an attack of "tamaditis", thinking he will learn to read in the big school. Good thing I got to my senses and continued my mini-experiment. Like how I started, I am in no hurry. I will only introduce a new word until such time that I can sense that he has mastered and can already transfer his learning.
Liam is making good progress.
He does need prompting every now and then but in general, he does it all by himself, 80% of the time.
Right now his sight words are as follows:
the, in, on, of, be, with, you and your.
He can easily read and spell all of it except for "with." He needs assistance when he is asked to spell that word, but he has no problems reading it.
I'm happy with my son's progress. Now, when I read books to him and I encounter some of his sight words, I point it to him and let him be the one to read it. During non-school days, I make my own activity sheets and let him do the exercises to test if he is learning. One of these days, I will take his video spelling the words and will post it as well.
I'm glad I decided to resume this project.
I'm just a bit worried that I might not be able to do it with Sam, since I am anticipating that by the time she is Liam's age now, I'll be back to work. Well, I guess I better make an effort too!
For a time, I got distracted and lost my enthusiasm -- an attack of "tamaditis", thinking he will learn to read in the big school. Good thing I got to my senses and continued my mini-experiment. Like how I started, I am in no hurry. I will only introduce a new word until such time that I can sense that he has mastered and can already transfer his learning.
Liam is making good progress.
He does need prompting every now and then but in general, he does it all by himself, 80% of the time.
Right now his sight words are as follows:
the, in, on, of, be, with, you and your.
He can easily read and spell all of it except for "with." He needs assistance when he is asked to spell that word, but he has no problems reading it.
I'm happy with my son's progress. Now, when I read books to him and I encounter some of his sight words, I point it to him and let him be the one to read it. During non-school days, I make my own activity sheets and let him do the exercises to test if he is learning. One of these days, I will take his video spelling the words and will post it as well.
I'm glad I decided to resume this project.
I'm just a bit worried that I might not be able to do it with Sam, since I am anticipating that by the time she is Liam's age now, I'll be back to work. Well, I guess I better make an effort too!
Sunday, August 7, 2011
Party Planning from Overseas
I still have one pending school requirement, but I just can't keep my mind off Sam's birthday!
Excited? hmmm, konti lang...lol
I have always had this thing with planning things. It didn't start with my wedding. I have had this since I can remember. So imagine the thrill that I experience whenever I start planning my own event! :)
Two things though to always keep in mind when it comes to my kids' events:
a. to be practical -- spending our money wisely and
b. do what I did with our eldest, with our youngest
The thrill and excitement is the same, except for one: this time, I'm planning and preparing everything from overseas.
My realization? It's hard.
It's a challenge because even if I have my family back home to do some errands for me for the party, they can only do so much. I can't force them to do it the way I would have done it if I am there. They are working and I know and I have to understand that I'm just asking a favor and they will do it on their convenient time.
I know it's still 3 months away, but can you blame me? Of course I will (or, make that we hehe) be shelling out money for the party (a 2-hour party) and I would only want to have something good for the value of the money we're spending. Yes, compared with Liam's before and now, we're much more financially prepared to spend, but I think it should not be an excuse for me to just spend, spend and spend, right?
The venue is booked.
What I want to do now is get feedback from the other caterer (and possibly a food tasting session as well), the venue just accredited and see if it's better than the other one (old caterer we had with Liam's). The only thing I can do is to ring the venue, ask if they have a scheduled party with Caterer B so I can send someone to watch and give me feedback. I'm considering Caterer B because the price for their best package is just the 3rd best Option for Caterer A. I'm just toying with the idea: can I rely on the company's accreditation standards for me to choose it? I mean, they won't get accredired if their food and services were not good, right? But I still want to play it safe. Aside from the program, the food is the next most important factor in a party. You want to make your guests happy too, right?
Second, I already want to know the prices for their Cotton Candy and Ice Cream Carts. Why? Because like in Liam's case before, I hired a trusted face painter even if it means I had to pay an extra Php500 corkage because I still ended up paying less than by getting Tom's own face painter (and I wasn't sure if he is good). It wasn't printed in the contract or flyer -- the exact cost, so I was ringing them a couple of times already (yep, overseas call!) but I can't talk to the person in charge. I want to know if it's cheaper to get these suppliers from outside (plus the corkage for each cart) than to get their in-house supplier. Unlike with Liam before, the prices were clearly printed in the flyer. I guess not all of their clients avail of these carts, so they just made it into "other options/services."
The overall plan is done. The loots are ready to be shipped to Manila. Funds are ok (I think hehehe). I just have to wait until the party date gets nearer.The little things I can do now, I will do. I'm giving myself until the end of August. When the "ber" months starts (and I'm done with all my school work by that time)I'll move mountains so I can already get what I need (and want!) for the party.
The waiting part is killing me. ;)
Excited? hmmm, konti lang...lol
I have always had this thing with planning things. It didn't start with my wedding. I have had this since I can remember. So imagine the thrill that I experience whenever I start planning my own event! :)
Two things though to always keep in mind when it comes to my kids' events:
a. to be practical -- spending our money wisely and
b. do what I did with our eldest, with our youngest
The thrill and excitement is the same, except for one: this time, I'm planning and preparing everything from overseas.
My realization? It's hard.
It's a challenge because even if I have my family back home to do some errands for me for the party, they can only do so much. I can't force them to do it the way I would have done it if I am there. They are working and I know and I have to understand that I'm just asking a favor and they will do it on their convenient time.
I know it's still 3 months away, but can you blame me? Of course I will (or, make that we hehe) be shelling out money for the party (a 2-hour party) and I would only want to have something good for the value of the money we're spending. Yes, compared with Liam's before and now, we're much more financially prepared to spend, but I think it should not be an excuse for me to just spend, spend and spend, right?
The venue is booked.
What I want to do now is get feedback from the other caterer (and possibly a food tasting session as well), the venue just accredited and see if it's better than the other one (old caterer we had with Liam's). The only thing I can do is to ring the venue, ask if they have a scheduled party with Caterer B so I can send someone to watch and give me feedback. I'm considering Caterer B because the price for their best package is just the 3rd best Option for Caterer A. I'm just toying with the idea: can I rely on the company's accreditation standards for me to choose it? I mean, they won't get accredired if their food and services were not good, right? But I still want to play it safe. Aside from the program, the food is the next most important factor in a party. You want to make your guests happy too, right?
Second, I already want to know the prices for their Cotton Candy and Ice Cream Carts. Why? Because like in Liam's case before, I hired a trusted face painter even if it means I had to pay an extra Php500 corkage because I still ended up paying less than by getting Tom's own face painter (and I wasn't sure if he is good). It wasn't printed in the contract or flyer -- the exact cost, so I was ringing them a couple of times already (yep, overseas call!) but I can't talk to the person in charge. I want to know if it's cheaper to get these suppliers from outside (plus the corkage for each cart) than to get their in-house supplier. Unlike with Liam before, the prices were clearly printed in the flyer. I guess not all of their clients avail of these carts, so they just made it into "other options/services."
The overall plan is done. The loots are ready to be shipped to Manila. Funds are ok (I think hehehe). I just have to wait until the party date gets nearer.The little things I can do now, I will do. I'm giving myself until the end of August. When the "ber" months starts (and I'm done with all my school work by that time)I'll move mountains so I can already get what I need (and want!) for the party.
The waiting part is killing me. ;)
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Aja!
Another lesson learned the hard way.
Well, I thought our dilemma was resolved already, but it wasn't. Well, at least just before hubby arrived from work today.
This morning, I decided to pass by he office of our travel agent, since I was already in the area. Hubby's leave was already approved yesterday and so we decided to contact our travel agent by today.
When I informed our travel agent of our plan to re-book our flight, I asked her how much I needed to pay her. Lo and behold, we had to shell out another $1160 just by moving my and the kids' flight to Manila on the same day as hubby's.
The breakdown:
$225 - change fee (for re-issue of the ticket and the admin fee of the ticketing office of our travel agent) This is for each passenger!
$140 - tax difference between the time we paid in full and the present rate of the tax. Again, this is per person.
$ 70 - fare difference for the kids. So multiply by 2.
I was shocked! More than a thousand? That's big money! I can spend that for shopping (hehehe) or it can already cover for a return trip ticket, may sukli ka pa!
I called on hubby and we decided to sit down and review our options. Good thing, Pauline, the travel agent who handled our inquiry this morning, was very accomodating, and gave suggestions on how we can settle our problem.
Option 1: ALvin moves his flight earlier to join us. That way we only have to shell out $225. --> Can't be! Since he only has 3 weeks leave, if he moves his flight one week earlier, we'll still end up moving our flight back to Sydney, one week earlier so we can all go home at the same time.
Option 2: Alvin moves his flight to join us. As soon as we get to Manila, we contact PAL and have our flights re-booked. That way we don't have to pay the change fee. But we'll still end up paying around $600 for the rebooking fee AND there is no assurance that we'll still have a slot on the date and time that we prefer. So, NO.
Option 3: Instead of spending the money for paying the fees, why not use the money to ask my BIL or SIL to come over for a two-week visit and put their return flight to Manila on the same flight as ours, so at least, I have another adult with during the flight. --> Seriously considered.
Option 4: ASk our Uncle and Aunt who will be having their holidays as well in Manila, if their flight is the same as ours, then problem solved, pronto! --> Sad to say, different airlines and different dates. Well, the good thing that came out from my chat with Auntie Weng was she gave me the push and assurance that I will be ok with it, considering ours is a direct flight. Assistance anyways are given to senior, preggy and passengers with infants on flights, right?
Option 5: Stick with our original plan, I fly with the kids and he follows the week after. Amend some of our things to-do like not bringing any check-in luggage to make it easier for me to travel and to focus on just the essentials -- forms and of course, our kids!
Final decision? Option 5.
Kaya ko yan, with a lot of prayers, and mind conditioning, I know I can.
When the going gets tough, the tough gets going.
Aja!
Well, I thought our dilemma was resolved already, but it wasn't. Well, at least just before hubby arrived from work today.
This morning, I decided to pass by he office of our travel agent, since I was already in the area. Hubby's leave was already approved yesterday and so we decided to contact our travel agent by today.
When I informed our travel agent of our plan to re-book our flight, I asked her how much I needed to pay her. Lo and behold, we had to shell out another $1160 just by moving my and the kids' flight to Manila on the same day as hubby's.
The breakdown:
$225 - change fee (for re-issue of the ticket and the admin fee of the ticketing office of our travel agent) This is for each passenger!
$140 - tax difference between the time we paid in full and the present rate of the tax. Again, this is per person.
$ 70 - fare difference for the kids. So multiply by 2.
I was shocked! More than a thousand? That's big money! I can spend that for shopping (hehehe) or it can already cover for a return trip ticket, may sukli ka pa!
I called on hubby and we decided to sit down and review our options. Good thing, Pauline, the travel agent who handled our inquiry this morning, was very accomodating, and gave suggestions on how we can settle our problem.
Option 1: ALvin moves his flight earlier to join us. That way we only have to shell out $225. --> Can't be! Since he only has 3 weeks leave, if he moves his flight one week earlier, we'll still end up moving our flight back to Sydney, one week earlier so we can all go home at the same time.
Option 2: Alvin moves his flight to join us. As soon as we get to Manila, we contact PAL and have our flights re-booked. That way we don't have to pay the change fee. But we'll still end up paying around $600 for the rebooking fee AND there is no assurance that we'll still have a slot on the date and time that we prefer. So, NO.
Option 3: Instead of spending the money for paying the fees, why not use the money to ask my BIL or SIL to come over for a two-week visit and put their return flight to Manila on the same flight as ours, so at least, I have another adult with during the flight. --> Seriously considered.
Option 4: ASk our Uncle and Aunt who will be having their holidays as well in Manila, if their flight is the same as ours, then problem solved, pronto! --> Sad to say, different airlines and different dates. Well, the good thing that came out from my chat with Auntie Weng was she gave me the push and assurance that I will be ok with it, considering ours is a direct flight. Assistance anyways are given to senior, preggy and passengers with infants on flights, right?
Option 5: Stick with our original plan, I fly with the kids and he follows the week after. Amend some of our things to-do like not bringing any check-in luggage to make it easier for me to travel and to focus on just the essentials -- forms and of course, our kids!
Final decision? Option 5.
Kaya ko yan, with a lot of prayers, and mind conditioning, I know I can.
When the going gets tough, the tough gets going.
Aja!
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
To Move!
I consulted a friend yesterday about my dilemma. She already had an experience travelling with her kids (almost same age as mine) and based on her e-mail, we have finally decided to move our flight to the same date as Alvin's.
I overlooked some of the things she mentioned on her e-mail, like attending to both of their needs while on the plane, keeping them busy, toilet breaks, etc etc etc. Thank God it's been resolved.
Now the harder task is I have to course through our change of date with our travel agent again?! Hay. How I wish I could have done it directly with PAL.
Hubby's ticket is still pending since they said they will be waiting for the promotional price of the tickets from PAL...well, I visited their website and saw that they already have an on-going promotion for only $890 with tax and that also covers our travel dates. Made me think again, where is my hubby's ticket?!
Well, come to think of it, maybe the reason why we are experiencing some MAJOR delays for hubby's ticket is this: our decision to change the date of our flight.
Can't wait to finish dealing with them.
I overlooked some of the things she mentioned on her e-mail, like attending to both of their needs while on the plane, keeping them busy, toilet breaks, etc etc etc. Thank God it's been resolved.
Now the harder task is I have to course through our change of date with our travel agent again?! Hay. How I wish I could have done it directly with PAL.
Hubby's ticket is still pending since they said they will be waiting for the promotional price of the tickets from PAL...well, I visited their website and saw that they already have an on-going promotion for only $890 with tax and that also covers our travel dates. Made me think again, where is my hubby's ticket?!
Well, come to think of it, maybe the reason why we are experiencing some MAJOR delays for hubby's ticket is this: our decision to change the date of our flight.
Can't wait to finish dealing with them.
Monday, August 1, 2011
To Move or Not to Move?
I have a dilemma.
My family and I are going to Manila later this year to have a short holiday, with family and friends, and to celebrate our baby girl's 1st birthday as well.
At the planning stage, we agreed that I and the two kids will go one week earlier than hubby. So me and the kids will be in Manila for a month and hubby just for 3 weeks. Hubby cannot stay and won't stay for more than 3 weeks on holidays. He finds it inappropriate and too long, even if he still has extra 2 weeks of leave.
So, we booked and paid for our tickets. Tickets have been issued.
Hubby's ticket is still not issued as we are still waiting for the travel agency to finalize it. (His ticket has a story of its own).
Now, in less than 100 days, we will be flying already, but I have been receiving feedback/opinions/concerns regarding our arrangement from friends. They worry that I might have a hard time handling/caring for the two kids on the 8-hour trip from Sydney to Manila, all by myself.
Now, we are seriously considering the option that we move our flight to the same date as hubby's. Well, what will I miss in 7 days, if I cut my trip short from a month to 3 weeks?
It's just that thought that I might as well stay longer anyways, we're there already, right? But I have to weigh the pros and cons. In addition to these is the fact that I wanted to go home earlier so I can already prepare for Sam's birthday. I'm finding it hard to prepare when I'm so many miles away! Yes, I get to ask the help of family based in Manila, but it's different when I'm the one personally doing it. I can do it my way. I can't ask too much if I am nakiki-paki. Hay! Dilemma, dilemma, dilemma!
Hope it gets settled soon!
My family and I are going to Manila later this year to have a short holiday, with family and friends, and to celebrate our baby girl's 1st birthday as well.
At the planning stage, we agreed that I and the two kids will go one week earlier than hubby. So me and the kids will be in Manila for a month and hubby just for 3 weeks. Hubby cannot stay and won't stay for more than 3 weeks on holidays. He finds it inappropriate and too long, even if he still has extra 2 weeks of leave.
So, we booked and paid for our tickets. Tickets have been issued.
Hubby's ticket is still not issued as we are still waiting for the travel agency to finalize it. (His ticket has a story of its own).
Now, in less than 100 days, we will be flying already, but I have been receiving feedback/opinions/concerns regarding our arrangement from friends. They worry that I might have a hard time handling/caring for the two kids on the 8-hour trip from Sydney to Manila, all by myself.
Now, we are seriously considering the option that we move our flight to the same date as hubby's. Well, what will I miss in 7 days, if I cut my trip short from a month to 3 weeks?
It's just that thought that I might as well stay longer anyways, we're there already, right? But I have to weigh the pros and cons. In addition to these is the fact that I wanted to go home earlier so I can already prepare for Sam's birthday. I'm finding it hard to prepare when I'm so many miles away! Yes, I get to ask the help of family based in Manila, but it's different when I'm the one personally doing it. I can do it my way. I can't ask too much if I am nakiki-paki. Hay! Dilemma, dilemma, dilemma!
Hope it gets settled soon!
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