God is such a great God!
Hubby and I had a dilemma about hubby's work and his present job applications last Friday. We thought that it was impossible to sort it all out by Tuesday of this week. Well guess what? It was all sorted out by yesterday, Monday!
I can't discuss everything here, but to make the long story short, hubby will transfer to another department in two weeks time. His contract was extended for another year! And his application with another company is still in place. Fingers crossed and keeping the faith, we hope that like what happened this weekend and yesterday, all will fall into place and he will be in the company which He thinks is best for Alvin and for our family :D
Truly, what may be impossible to us, is very much possible with God!
Tuesday, July 31, 2012
Saturday, July 28, 2012
"The Gift of Grandparents"
Yesterday at work, the school had an assembly to celebrate Grandparents' Day. The Year 1 students led the assembly as they prepared songs, prayers, and a simple yet touching program for their grandparents.
One part of the program included the kids reading their simple essays: descriptions of their grandparents, why they love their grandparents, what they do with their grandparents. I cannot help but remember my two Lolas, Lola Sabel and Mamay. (My siblings and I were not fortunate enough to meet our two Lolos since they both passed away at an early age).
I can very much relate to the kids who said: "I love my Nanna because she likes reading stories to me...she buys me things/toys...she plays with me...she cooks for me..." As some of them were reading their outputs you can see the smile on their grandparents' faces. Some of them were even teary-eyed.
As I was growing up, I remember praying fervently that God give my parents long life so they can see me settle down. I think that prayer has been granted. After I got married, my prayer changed. I prayed that God will allow my parents to see the birth and enjoy their grandkids. Again, I think, that prayer has been answered.
I consider my kids lucky because they had the chance to meet and enjoy the company of both their Lolos and Lolas. My kids know their Lolos and Lolas even if we are miles apart from one another. Thanks to technology, we try to bridge the gap and physical absence through Skype, phone calls, and thru Facebook. It's like they are having a long-distance love-affair with them. Of course, they also get to catch-up with one another when they come here for a short vacation or vice-versa.
I remember watching one current affair show which featured the importance of the presence of grandparents to their grandkids. Truly, there are some lessons in life that only grandparents can teach their grandkids. Their wisdom is really different from that of us, the parents.The way they spoil their grandkids is different from how we do it, in the same way that the effects on the grandkids are different.
The Grandparents' Day celebration made me wish that there could be more opportunities for my kids (and their cousins ) to spend more time with their Lolos and Lolas, TOGETHER. Not only thru Skype, not only by talking to them on the phone, or thru uploaded pictures and videos. To really spend time together, playing with one another, telling stories, shopping for them (hehehe Lola Lynn!), teaching them lessons about life.
The distance between us probably made me appreciate them more. It would have been probably different if we are still based in Manila, and they are just a stone's throw away from us.
The assembly ended with a short message from the Assistant Principal. She mentioned about the part in Christiam marriage rites where it says: "may you live long enough to see your children's children," -- this for me is indeed a beautiful blessing. This for me, makes grandparents a "gift." And I couldn't agree more when she tried to define what "grandparent" is by taking the meaning of "grand" first from the dictionary-- dignified, noble, admirable, sublime, magnificent, wonderful, worthy of respect. Truly, these words define what grandparents are.
I thank the Lord for granting my prayers -- for allowing my parents ( and Alvin's too) to see their children's children.
One part of the program included the kids reading their simple essays: descriptions of their grandparents, why they love their grandparents, what they do with their grandparents. I cannot help but remember my two Lolas, Lola Sabel and Mamay. (My siblings and I were not fortunate enough to meet our two Lolos since they both passed away at an early age).
I can very much relate to the kids who said: "I love my Nanna because she likes reading stories to me...she buys me things/toys...she plays with me...she cooks for me..." As some of them were reading their outputs you can see the smile on their grandparents' faces. Some of them were even teary-eyed.
As I was growing up, I remember praying fervently that God give my parents long life so they can see me settle down. I think that prayer has been granted. After I got married, my prayer changed. I prayed that God will allow my parents to see the birth and enjoy their grandkids. Again, I think, that prayer has been answered.
I consider my kids lucky because they had the chance to meet and enjoy the company of both their Lolos and Lolas. My kids know their Lolos and Lolas even if we are miles apart from one another. Thanks to technology, we try to bridge the gap and physical absence through Skype, phone calls, and thru Facebook. It's like they are having a long-distance love-affair with them. Of course, they also get to catch-up with one another when they come here for a short vacation or vice-versa.
I remember watching one current affair show which featured the importance of the presence of grandparents to their grandkids. Truly, there are some lessons in life that only grandparents can teach their grandkids. Their wisdom is really different from that of us, the parents.The way they spoil their grandkids is different from how we do it, in the same way that the effects on the grandkids are different.
The Grandparents' Day celebration made me wish that there could be more opportunities for my kids (and their cousins ) to spend more time with their Lolos and Lolas, TOGETHER. Not only thru Skype, not only by talking to them on the phone, or thru uploaded pictures and videos. To really spend time together, playing with one another, telling stories, shopping for them (hehehe Lola Lynn!), teaching them lessons about life.
The distance between us probably made me appreciate them more. It would have been probably different if we are still based in Manila, and they are just a stone's throw away from us.
The assembly ended with a short message from the Assistant Principal. She mentioned about the part in Christiam marriage rites where it says: "may you live long enough to see your children's children," -- this for me is indeed a beautiful blessing. This for me, makes grandparents a "gift." And I couldn't agree more when she tried to define what "grandparent" is by taking the meaning of "grand" first from the dictionary-- dignified, noble, admirable, sublime, magnificent, wonderful, worthy of respect. Truly, these words define what grandparents are.
 |
| The Gift of Grandparents. A very good read. |
 |
| I hope that in the future, Alvin and I will also be "rewarded" for being a parent. |
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Tidbits 2012
I fetched my nephew from his OC test this morning. I got myself a small cup of coffee from the gasoline station across the exam venue. I just drank 2/3 of the coffee, now I'm shaking! I really can't drink too much coffee! I forgot all about the effects on me, of having to drink "too much" coffee. Kwenk!
****
While waiting, I can't help but notice: walang mas yadong pu ti na na gaabang sa anak nila na kumuha ng eks amen. Puros la hat o karamihan ay mgamigrante, ga ling samga bansa mula sa Asya. Dami nga mga boomi. Mangilan-ngilan lang ta lagaang nakita kong puti. Naalala ko tuloy yung madalas nagiging problema ngmga p utisaA merika. Nauubusan na daw sila ng trabaho sa ibang bansa dahil halos lahat ay napupunta na sa mga migrante. E yung nakita ko kaninang umaga ay isa lamang repleksyon kung bakit gaoon ang nang yayari. Parasilang masya dong kam pante na...ayaw ni lang kunin ang mga opor tunidadtulad na lamang ng papasukin ang anak nila sa mga eskwelahan na may mga prog ramang tulad ng OC. Tuloy, angmga nakakakuha ng mga maga gandang opor tunidad ayang "iba" na tinu turingnila.
***
One of my FB friends, who is also based here in OZ left a comment when I uploaded a Math manipulative, which I plan to use with Liam in teaching him addition and subtraction. She said that she is loving the "laid-back" style of education here in OZ. It's hard enough to raise three kids so she will not stress herself even more by teaching or tutoring them.
Yes, raising kids overseas remains to be a challenge and I agree with her on that aspect. But personally, I am not for the "laid-back" style of education here in Oz. I sometimes feel, it is too laid-back.
Dito kasi ang paniniwala ng mga guro sa mababang paaralan, "bawal ma-istress ang mga bata." Wala naman akong problema doon, pero pansin ko, talagang wala na silang istress. Naiipon lahat ng istress pagdating nila ng haiskul. Ayaw ko naman mangyari iyon sa mga anak ko. Naging palaisipan din sa akin ang kanyang komento. Bakit nga ba gusto kong turuan ng mas marami ang anak ko at bakit hindi ko na lang hayaan ang mga guro nila na turuan sila?
Una: pride na kung pride,pero ayaw kodumating sa pun to namay kaibigan ako mula Maynila na may anak na pareho ng lebel ng aking mga anak at sabihin na: "ang dali-dali naman pala mag-aral dito sa ibang bansa." Para ngsa sarili ko, gusto ko na kung anoang lebel ng isang nasa ika-4 na bai tang sa pinas, ganoon din ang alam ng anak ko dito. Ako na guro dito, masasabi ko natsi kenang Matematika di to hanggang sa ika-6 na baitang. Enung ako ay nag tuturo ng Matematika sa ika-6 na baitang sapinas, mayroon nakami ngalgebra. Sa ma daling sabi,ayokong mapagiwanan ang mga anak ko.
Pangalawa: dahil sa na kita ko kaninang umaga, mas lalo akong nanindigan na tuturuan ko ng ekstra ang mga anak ko. Sa to toong mundo, talagang may kompetisyon. "dog-eat-dog" ika nga. Kami ngayon ng tatay nila ay ma palad dahil maganda ang aming mga trabaho. Mas maganda pa kasya samga ilang orig na taga dito. Ilang taon mula ngayon, ang mga anak namin ang magiging mga lokalng bansang ito, at maari, maymga dumadayo pa rin mula sa iab't-ibang bansa. Ayaw kong mapag iwanan sila o ma lampasan sila ng mga dadayo at ang lala bas, sila na ang di makakakuha ng mga magagandang oportunidad. Baka kung hahayaan ko lang at wala akong gagawin, baka maging kampante na sila, at mas maganda pa ang mga maging trabaho ng mga "iba" na darating mula sa ibang bansa, katulad ng nakita ko kanina.
Ayaw ko lang na maging tamad sila, naka asasa gob yerno, gusto ko na lumaki sila na may inaasam asam, may mga pangarap na gustong tuparin and makam tan. Ayaw ko silang magseytle o ang maging panuntunan sa buhay ay: ok lang, ok na ito.
Kaya OA na kung OA, pero isa lamang akong magulang na ang tanging hangad ay maging matagumpay ang kanyang mga anak.
***
Alvin didn't make it to the last cut of the final interview for one job application he had. :( So we're hoping that the interview he had yesterday will yield good results. I'm excited about this because the company is based in a nearby sub-urb, only 15 minutes away from home! Imagine, if he gets accepted here, he can leave home late, and arrive early! hay!!!!! After almost 2 years of leaving home early and arriving home late hehehe But I'm not complaining now. BAT has been very good to him. The only thing though, of course, he will get a paycut with this new company. Okay with us, as long as it's for a permanent position already. Keeping the faith!
***
I've submitted Liam's enrollment forms at QHPS this morning. Although we haven't pulled out his name from Barnier Public School yet. But to date, we are leaning towards QHPS. It all boils down to the school's mission and vision. We as parents are now reflecting on the mission and vision of the school and see which one we prefer our kids to be after they go to that school ;) Still praying for guidance :)
****
While waiting, I can't help but notice: walang mas yadong pu ti na na gaabang sa anak nila na kumuha ng eks amen. Puros la hat o karamihan ay mgamigrante, ga ling samga bansa mula sa Asya. Dami nga mga boomi. Mangilan-ngilan lang ta lagaang nakita kong puti. Naalala ko tuloy yung madalas nagiging problema ngmga p utisaA merika. Nauubusan na daw sila ng trabaho sa ibang bansa dahil halos lahat ay napupunta na sa mga migrante. E yung nakita ko kaninang umaga ay isa lamang repleksyon kung bakit gaoon ang nang yayari. Parasilang masya dong kam pante na...ayaw ni lang kunin ang mga opor tunidadtulad na lamang ng papasukin ang anak nila sa mga eskwelahan na may mga prog ramang tulad ng OC. Tuloy, angmga nakakakuha ng mga maga gandang opor tunidad ayang "iba" na tinu turingnila.
***
One of my FB friends, who is also based here in OZ left a comment when I uploaded a Math manipulative, which I plan to use with Liam in teaching him addition and subtraction. She said that she is loving the "laid-back" style of education here in OZ. It's hard enough to raise three kids so she will not stress herself even more by teaching or tutoring them.
Yes, raising kids overseas remains to be a challenge and I agree with her on that aspect. But personally, I am not for the "laid-back" style of education here in Oz. I sometimes feel, it is too laid-back.
Dito kasi ang paniniwala ng mga guro sa mababang paaralan, "bawal ma-istress ang mga bata." Wala naman akong problema doon, pero pansin ko, talagang wala na silang istress. Naiipon lahat ng istress pagdating nila ng haiskul. Ayaw ko naman mangyari iyon sa mga anak ko. Naging palaisipan din sa akin ang kanyang komento. Bakit nga ba gusto kong turuan ng mas marami ang anak ko at bakit hindi ko na lang hayaan ang mga guro nila na turuan sila?
Una: pride na kung pride,pero ayaw kodumating sa pun to namay kaibigan ako mula Maynila na may anak na pareho ng lebel ng aking mga anak at sabihin na: "ang dali-dali naman pala mag-aral dito sa ibang bansa." Para ngsa sarili ko, gusto ko na kung anoang lebel ng isang nasa ika-4 na bai tang sa pinas, ganoon din ang alam ng anak ko dito. Ako na guro dito, masasabi ko natsi kenang Matematika di to hanggang sa ika-6 na baitang. Enung ako ay nag tuturo ng Matematika sa ika-6 na baitang sapinas, mayroon nakami ngalgebra. Sa ma daling sabi,ayokong mapagiwanan ang mga anak ko.
Pangalawa: dahil sa na kita ko kaninang umaga, mas lalo akong nanindigan na tuturuan ko ng ekstra ang mga anak ko. Sa to toong mundo, talagang may kompetisyon. "dog-eat-dog" ika nga. Kami ngayon ng tatay nila ay ma palad dahil maganda ang aming mga trabaho. Mas maganda pa kasya samga ilang orig na taga dito. Ilang taon mula ngayon, ang mga anak namin ang magiging mga lokalng bansang ito, at maari, maymga dumadayo pa rin mula sa iab't-ibang bansa. Ayaw kong mapag iwanan sila o ma lampasan sila ng mga dadayo at ang lala bas, sila na ang di makakakuha ng mga magagandang oportunidad. Baka kung hahayaan ko lang at wala akong gagawin, baka maging kampante na sila, at mas maganda pa ang mga maging trabaho ng mga "iba" na darating mula sa ibang bansa, katulad ng nakita ko kanina.
Ayaw ko lang na maging tamad sila, naka asasa gob yerno, gusto ko na lumaki sila na may inaasam asam, may mga pangarap na gustong tuparin and makam tan. Ayaw ko silang magseytle o ang maging panuntunan sa buhay ay: ok lang, ok na ito.
Kaya OA na kung OA, pero isa lamang akong magulang na ang tanging hangad ay maging matagumpay ang kanyang mga anak.
***
Alvin didn't make it to the last cut of the final interview for one job application he had. :( So we're hoping that the interview he had yesterday will yield good results. I'm excited about this because the company is based in a nearby sub-urb, only 15 minutes away from home! Imagine, if he gets accepted here, he can leave home late, and arrive early! hay!!!!! After almost 2 years of leaving home early and arriving home late hehehe But I'm not complaining now. BAT has been very good to him. The only thing though, of course, he will get a paycut with this new company. Okay with us, as long as it's for a permanent position already. Keeping the faith!
***
I've submitted Liam's enrollment forms at QHPS this morning. Although we haven't pulled out his name from Barnier Public School yet. But to date, we are leaning towards QHPS. It all boils down to the school's mission and vision. We as parents are now reflecting on the mission and vision of the school and see which one we prefer our kids to be after they go to that school ;) Still praying for guidance :)
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
Colour Blindness
| Liam can't see the number 5 in green dots |
It is a test for colour blindness.
I didn't care before, well, up until last Tuesday.
Last Tuesday, the pre-school directress called my attention because she accidentally discovered that Liam might be colour blind. She was actually testing another boy using the Ishihara test, as requested by another parent, when by some twist of fate, she was able to discover Liam's inability to see the green number in the pool of orange dots. She then advised me to bring Liam to an eye doctor to formally test and see if he is indeed colour blind.
And so he is.
Today, we went to an optometrist and she did perform a series of tests to Liam. The diagnosis? Liam is blue-green colour blind.
Yes, he can identify the colours in isolation, but when it is blended with other colors, he will have difficulty seeing and identifying it. Brought back memories when he was still learning his colours and he had a hard time distinguishing the purple from a different shade of blue.
Some facts:
No need for me to worry since we really can't do anything about it. You can't treat it. The only implication of him being colour-blind is: he cannot join the army, the navy, the air force and become a pilot. These professions require 100% accuracy in vision. (I'm actually relieved hehehe).
The mother is usually the carrier of the deficiency (recessive) and it comes out as a dominant trait with their sons. So, I'm to blame. Sorry, Liam :( The optometrist actually advised me to ask my brothers to have their eyes checked for colour blindness. It is predominant in males.
The test this afternoon was not only with colour blindness but with his vision too. The optometrist said that he had perfect vision. It's even better than most kids his age. He aced the letters and numbers, he uses both eyes to read and look at pictures, but really showed difficulty identifying them when set in a green background.
The optometrist said that it can also have an implication with his studies if ever the teacher uses the green coloured ink on the whiteboard or on the smartboard. To prevent that from happening, I already asked for a medical report which I plan to give to Liam's school next year. At least they are already aware of Liam's case.
We just have to teach him the green in the traffic signs in a different way, especially the walk-don't walk sign.
I am actually relieved that it has been diagnosed this early. Though the doctor assured me that I shouldn't really be worried because kids can adapt easily (goodbye tennis lessons?), but still, part of me is remains sad :(
Hopefully, in due time, I'd come to terms with it and move on :)
Now, I'm just looking at the brighter side of life :) There are still a lot of things to be thankful for :)
Friday, July 20, 2012
Liam's Big School Update
I can't believe that choosing the best school for my son will be this hard.
Another answered prayer came in the mail today.
Yes, our application to Quakers Hill Public School was accepted. The school will accommodate us even if we are not within the local area.
The past months, since we have seriously considered it as a possible school for Liam, we have prayed that God direct us to the best decision. In our prayers, we are taking it as a sign that if Liam's application for enrollment in the said school is approved, then he is for that school. So since we got the answer to that prayer today, we should already be rejoicing, right?
Well call me nuts, but I'm just being a segurista. Sorry Lord, kulit ko ba? hehehe
So why again all the apprehension or hesitation?
The convenience and the logistics. It will be easier for me if he just goes to Barnier. I will be more at peace because his cousins go there (assuming Lance is not accepted in the OC programme).
My other questions about QHPS has been fully answered to my satisfaction the last time I was there. The school does utilize technology in their school curriculum, they have a lot of extra-curricular activties for their students. The academic programs are in place and are all time-tested. I like what they have to offer. They have Reading Eggs and Mathletics for their students. The school ranking is very good. And the thing is, they have OOSH within the school premises. Their school starts late, 9:10 am and ends late 3:15pm, so even if I continue working, it will not be as hard for me. The school is only 5 minutes away from home and not ten minutes as I initially thought (yes, I timed it!)
But I still want to make sure. Can you blame me? I'm just a parent who wants the best for her child.
I plan to still ask around and research more about the programmes in Barnier (it's not in their website). I will have to ask for the School Information Booklet so I can compare what they are to offer to their students.
So why am I still hesitating? Wala lang, stubborn? Probably. hehehe
QHPS gave us until 17 August to hand in all the other requirements. Hopefully by then, hubby and I have learned more about the programmes at Barnier, compared notes and have already arrived at the best decision.
Still praying that we will be guided every step of the way.
Another answered prayer came in the mail today.
Yes, our application to Quakers Hill Public School was accepted. The school will accommodate us even if we are not within the local area.
The past months, since we have seriously considered it as a possible school for Liam, we have prayed that God direct us to the best decision. In our prayers, we are taking it as a sign that if Liam's application for enrollment in the said school is approved, then he is for that school. So since we got the answer to that prayer today, we should already be rejoicing, right?
Well call me nuts, but I'm just being a segurista. Sorry Lord, kulit ko ba? hehehe
So why again all the apprehension or hesitation?
The convenience and the logistics. It will be easier for me if he just goes to Barnier. I will be more at peace because his cousins go there (assuming Lance is not accepted in the OC programme).
My other questions about QHPS has been fully answered to my satisfaction the last time I was there. The school does utilize technology in their school curriculum, they have a lot of extra-curricular activties for their students. The academic programs are in place and are all time-tested. I like what they have to offer. They have Reading Eggs and Mathletics for their students. The school ranking is very good. And the thing is, they have OOSH within the school premises. Their school starts late, 9:10 am and ends late 3:15pm, so even if I continue working, it will not be as hard for me. The school is only 5 minutes away from home and not ten minutes as I initially thought (yes, I timed it!)
But I still want to make sure. Can you blame me? I'm just a parent who wants the best for her child.
I plan to still ask around and research more about the programmes in Barnier (it's not in their website). I will have to ask for the School Information Booklet so I can compare what they are to offer to their students.
So why am I still hesitating? Wala lang, stubborn? Probably. hehehe
QHPS gave us until 17 August to hand in all the other requirements. Hopefully by then, hubby and I have learned more about the programmes at Barnier, compared notes and have already arrived at the best decision.
Still praying that we will be guided every step of the way.
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
The Glass is Half Full
We are seeing the glass as half full.
Two weeks ago, hubby brought home some good news. His contract, which was supposedly ending by the end of next month (August), has been extended for another month.
Some might say, why are you so happy, when it has only been extended for a month?
As I have said earlier, we are seeing the glass as half full, not half empty.
Being extended for another 30 days is something to be thankful for.
We are living our lives one day at a time now. Enjoying the now, the present, letting the future worry on it's own. :-)
His offer to be reassigned as an expat to another country is still in place. Anytime from today until August, we will know if its will push through. If it does, we might accept it with open arms. Yes, it will be hard for me and the kids again, but you don't let opportunities like this pass, right? We are letting go, letting God. Whatever He thinks is best for our family, dun kami.
He continues to apply for other work just in case his contract will not be extended anymore, come October. We are affirmed that all is being taken cared of because a day after he submits his application, he gets a call from the agent and his application goes on to the next step. Right now, he has one application which is already nearing the last step. Keeping our fingers crossed.
Yesterday, hubby called from work to tell me that he had another salary increase! Yes, this was aside from the big increase he got last year, the mini-bonus he got early this year. So many things to be thankful for, right?
We are thankful for hubby's work. It continues to be a source of blessing for our family.
I have always been a pessimist -- always seeing the glass as half-empty. I now realize how good it feels to see the glass as half full. I hope to retain this optimism inside of me and later on pass it to my kids.
Thank you, Lord for all the blessings :-)
Two weeks ago, hubby brought home some good news. His contract, which was supposedly ending by the end of next month (August), has been extended for another month.
Some might say, why are you so happy, when it has only been extended for a month?
As I have said earlier, we are seeing the glass as half full, not half empty.
Being extended for another 30 days is something to be thankful for.
We are living our lives one day at a time now. Enjoying the now, the present, letting the future worry on it's own. :-)
His offer to be reassigned as an expat to another country is still in place. Anytime from today until August, we will know if its will push through. If it does, we might accept it with open arms. Yes, it will be hard for me and the kids again, but you don't let opportunities like this pass, right? We are letting go, letting God. Whatever He thinks is best for our family, dun kami.
He continues to apply for other work just in case his contract will not be extended anymore, come October. We are affirmed that all is being taken cared of because a day after he submits his application, he gets a call from the agent and his application goes on to the next step. Right now, he has one application which is already nearing the last step. Keeping our fingers crossed.
Yesterday, hubby called from work to tell me that he had another salary increase! Yes, this was aside from the big increase he got last year, the mini-bonus he got early this year. So many things to be thankful for, right?
We are thankful for hubby's work. It continues to be a source of blessing for our family.
I have always been a pessimist -- always seeing the glass as half-empty. I now realize how good it feels to see the glass as half full. I hope to retain this optimism inside of me and later on pass it to my kids.
Thank you, Lord for all the blessings :-)
Monday, July 16, 2012
"My Eyes are Just Wet"
"My eyes are just wet, Mama."
This was what my son told me when he was trying to give an excuse as to why he was sniffing.
But there is no denying, he was crying.
The reason?
Last night, he asked me to tell him bedtime stories. (Papa was busy doing something important for work so he was in the other room. Sam on the other hand, was already sleeping on my chest).
I first chose Hansel and Gretel (because it was the "theme" used last Tuesday in the TV series, Once Upon A Time). It was a bad choice because as soon as I mentioned the word "witch" his mood changed. Now, not to make things worse, I changed the ending of the story and tried to inject the value/lesson of praying -- that the kids were saved because they prayed to Jesus.
After the story, he was better but he told me he was sad because of the witch. So he asked me again to tell him another bedtime story. This time, I chose a Christmas theme. I told him about a story of a Mum who got a letter from Santa that the work for her little boy's wish of having a big bike for Christmas has begun! Santa told the mum to tell it to her little boy, so he can continue to be good, making the right and sensible choices.
He was laughing and giggling every now and then. I think he had a gut feel that the characters in the story I just told him were me and him. He was excited.
I thought it was enough, but he then requested for a third bedtime story!
Ok, so now I chose the theme of being special.
Here's my story:
Once there was a boy and a girl, they became friends and after a long time of being friends, they got married. They prayed that God will give them a baby. It was April. Then it became June, July, August, September, October, November, December, January, February and then March again! It was almost April again, but still no baby. So they prayed and prayed some more. God told them why the baby was still not given to them. He told them that He is still preparing the special boy He will give them. He was taking his time because this boy was really special, he will like the Wiggles, then Thomas the Train, when grows up a bit older, he will like Spiderman, the Avengers, Power Rangers and Ben 10. (At this time we has smiling again, but he wasn't interrupting me.) He will be a good boy and a good Kuya. He will be one happy boy! He will make his Papa and Mama proud."
And then there, I heard him (although lights were out already, we had a tea candle lit inside the room). Humihikbi. I asked him if he was okay. I asked him if he was crying.
He said: "I am okay Mama. Mama, my eyes are just wet."
He then gave me a big hug and said "I Love You Mama" while wiping his wet eyes.
I don't know if he knew that the story was again inspired by him. We didn't discuss it anymore after he gave me the goodnight's kiss and said "I Love You."
I didn't force him to tell me and admit to me that he was crying and why he was crying.
I am writing because I am trying to comprehend and make something out from that moment.
I guess, it was one moment that I really can't explain. I, or we, had that feeling that we understood what was happening even if we didn't discuss it.
It was one very touching and tender moment for the two of us.
I hope that my son will remember this, because I will never forget it.
This was what my son told me when he was trying to give an excuse as to why he was sniffing.
But there is no denying, he was crying.
The reason?
Last night, he asked me to tell him bedtime stories. (Papa was busy doing something important for work so he was in the other room. Sam on the other hand, was already sleeping on my chest).
I first chose Hansel and Gretel (because it was the "theme" used last Tuesday in the TV series, Once Upon A Time). It was a bad choice because as soon as I mentioned the word "witch" his mood changed. Now, not to make things worse, I changed the ending of the story and tried to inject the value/lesson of praying -- that the kids were saved because they prayed to Jesus.
After the story, he was better but he told me he was sad because of the witch. So he asked me again to tell him another bedtime story. This time, I chose a Christmas theme. I told him about a story of a Mum who got a letter from Santa that the work for her little boy's wish of having a big bike for Christmas has begun! Santa told the mum to tell it to her little boy, so he can continue to be good, making the right and sensible choices.
He was laughing and giggling every now and then. I think he had a gut feel that the characters in the story I just told him were me and him. He was excited.
I thought it was enough, but he then requested for a third bedtime story!
Ok, so now I chose the theme of being special.
Here's my story:
Once there was a boy and a girl, they became friends and after a long time of being friends, they got married. They prayed that God will give them a baby. It was April. Then it became June, July, August, September, October, November, December, January, February and then March again! It was almost April again, but still no baby. So they prayed and prayed some more. God told them why the baby was still not given to them. He told them that He is still preparing the special boy He will give them. He was taking his time because this boy was really special, he will like the Wiggles, then Thomas the Train, when grows up a bit older, he will like Spiderman, the Avengers, Power Rangers and Ben 10. (At this time we has smiling again, but he wasn't interrupting me.) He will be a good boy and a good Kuya. He will be one happy boy! He will make his Papa and Mama proud."
And then there, I heard him (although lights were out already, we had a tea candle lit inside the room). Humihikbi. I asked him if he was okay. I asked him if he was crying.
He said: "I am okay Mama. Mama, my eyes are just wet."
He then gave me a big hug and said "I Love You Mama" while wiping his wet eyes.
I don't know if he knew that the story was again inspired by him. We didn't discuss it anymore after he gave me the goodnight's kiss and said "I Love You."
I didn't force him to tell me and admit to me that he was crying and why he was crying.
I am writing because I am trying to comprehend and make something out from that moment.
I guess, it was one moment that I really can't explain. I, or we, had that feeling that we understood what was happening even if we didn't discuss it.
It was one very touching and tender moment for the two of us.
I hope that my son will remember this, because I will never forget it.
Friday, July 13, 2012
Tonsillitis
In less than two minutes, the doctor was sure of his diagnosis.
Ha!
Tonsillitis?
Really now!
Hay! :(
Pain in my throat started two days ago. Last night was worse. Alvin asked me to consult the doctor today after I bring the kids to childcare.
Yes, now I'm on antibiotics.
And it still hurts like @-@!
I just thought that tonsillitis are only for kids?!
Well, guess not!
Praying the pain will go away really soon.
Ha!
Tonsillitis?
Really now!
Hay! :(
Pain in my throat started two days ago. Last night was worse. Alvin asked me to consult the doctor today after I bring the kids to childcare.
Yes, now I'm on antibiotics.
And it still hurts like @-@!
I just thought that tonsillitis are only for kids?!
Well, guess not!
Praying the pain will go away really soon.
Friday, July 6, 2012
Sam's 2nd
Hubby must have sensed my frustration during Sam's 1st birthday party. He seems very supportive of me the past few days after I have shared with him my plans for Sam's 2nd birthday party.
Yes, I know, it's still 5 months away, but you know me by now, right?
We will definitely throw Sam a birthday party because Liam had one when we got here in Sydney. He had his at Hungry Jacks. It was a very simple party.
I was actually thinking of having Sam's 2nd at Hungry Jacks too. You know, para lang maidaos.
Alvin said that if we are to invite just kids, then it wouldn't be a problem. But the thing is, we expect adult guests too. Here in Australia, they have a weird way of celebrating kids' parties. You drop the kids off at the venue and leave them at the care of the hosts only to pick them up again after two hours. In our culture, it is already expected that you will have to prepare food not only for the kids but for the adults as well. And since majority of the guests will be kababayans, then we have to look for another possible option as to how we will celebrate Sam's 2nd.
So what to do?
I looked for a venue that will meet the following criteria:
- within our budget
- kids can do something during/after the party -- like a playland and the like (ayaw ni Mr. B ng simpleng Neighbourhood Centre)
- we can bring in our own food
- enough space to accommodate our kid and adult guests
- will give us a free hand with the programme
Result?
- we consdired parks, but the thing with parks, it's free for all. first come, first served basis. not also weather proof, mahirap especially if it suddenly rains. we have to bring chairs and tables for our guests.
Gusto ko sana sa bahay, pero maliit masyado yung bahay namin to accommodate everyone we are thinking of inviting. Ayaw ko na rin magligpit sa bahay after the party.
Research, research and some more research, until...success!
Found one. It meets all of our criteria. Indoor Venue. We can bring in our own food. It is a playland. Adults and kids aged 6 years and above need not pay the entrance. They have indoor cafe in case we run out of food hehehe. They have host for 2 hours. They have tables and chairs for the guests. We have exclusive party area for two hours. Exciting!
What makes me more excited is the fact that when I share my plans to hubby, he also gives his inputs. Like the food we will be having at the party (we will do it the Aussie way, walang kanin, lechon, etc. walang masyadong kuskos balungos...yung madaling kainin at ligpitin!... something light but it can make you full) or ideas about the other details for the party. It's not a first, but knowing hubby, when he starts to become actively involved in a project (parties especially), it's already good to go :)
Madami pang aayusin, but bottomline, tapos na yung pinakamahirap na parte. Ang pag-oo ni Mr. B at ang venue. I am also not raising the bar this time, I will keep it simple. Aalisin ko na yung mga kaek-ekan ko LOL :) Hopefully, if I keep it that way, I will not see myself being frustrated again if things don't go as planned.
Now, keeping our fingers crossed, we will still be able to celebrate and push thru with the plans.
A lot of things can still happen in five months! :)
Yes, I know, it's still 5 months away, but you know me by now, right?
We will definitely throw Sam a birthday party because Liam had one when we got here in Sydney. He had his at Hungry Jacks. It was a very simple party.
I was actually thinking of having Sam's 2nd at Hungry Jacks too. You know, para lang maidaos.
Alvin said that if we are to invite just kids, then it wouldn't be a problem. But the thing is, we expect adult guests too. Here in Australia, they have a weird way of celebrating kids' parties. You drop the kids off at the venue and leave them at the care of the hosts only to pick them up again after two hours. In our culture, it is already expected that you will have to prepare food not only for the kids but for the adults as well. And since majority of the guests will be kababayans, then we have to look for another possible option as to how we will celebrate Sam's 2nd.
So what to do?
I looked for a venue that will meet the following criteria:
- within our budget
- kids can do something during/after the party -- like a playland and the like (ayaw ni Mr. B ng simpleng Neighbourhood Centre)
- we can bring in our own food
- enough space to accommodate our kid and adult guests
- will give us a free hand with the programme
Result?
- we consdired parks, but the thing with parks, it's free for all. first come, first served basis. not also weather proof, mahirap especially if it suddenly rains. we have to bring chairs and tables for our guests.
Gusto ko sana sa bahay, pero maliit masyado yung bahay namin to accommodate everyone we are thinking of inviting. Ayaw ko na rin magligpit sa bahay after the party.
Research, research and some more research, until...success!
Found one. It meets all of our criteria. Indoor Venue. We can bring in our own food. It is a playland. Adults and kids aged 6 years and above need not pay the entrance. They have indoor cafe in case we run out of food hehehe. They have host for 2 hours. They have tables and chairs for the guests. We have exclusive party area for two hours. Exciting!
What makes me more excited is the fact that when I share my plans to hubby, he also gives his inputs. Like the food we will be having at the party (we will do it the Aussie way, walang kanin, lechon, etc. walang masyadong kuskos balungos...yung madaling kainin at ligpitin!... something light but it can make you full) or ideas about the other details for the party. It's not a first, but knowing hubby, when he starts to become actively involved in a project (parties especially), it's already good to go :)
Madami pang aayusin, but bottomline, tapos na yung pinakamahirap na parte. Ang pag-oo ni Mr. B at ang venue. I am also not raising the bar this time, I will keep it simple. Aalisin ko na yung mga kaek-ekan ko LOL :) Hopefully, if I keep it that way, I will not see myself being frustrated again if things don't go as planned.
Now, keeping our fingers crossed, we will still be able to celebrate and push thru with the plans.
A lot of things can still happen in five months! :)
My Sammie is A Gwel
Yes, there is no denying that Sammie is a girl.
As early as now, she has been showing us her femininity.
She likes coloruing in.
She likes music and dance.
She likes dolls. She plays with it like it was the real thing! She puts them to bed and sings for them. She asks us to change their nappies. She likes Elmo the most, treats him like her baby.
She likes playing with tea-sets and knows how to use them.
Truly, boys are different from girls.
My two kids are already proving it. :)
As early as now, she has been showing us her femininity.
She likes coloruing in.
She likes music and dance.
She likes dolls. She plays with it like it was the real thing! She puts them to bed and sings for them. She asks us to change their nappies. She likes Elmo the most, treats him like her baby.
She likes playing with tea-sets and knows how to use them.
Truly, boys are different from girls.
My two kids are already proving it. :)
Monday, July 2, 2012
A New Blog
I told you, there is beauty in death.
The death of some of our friends convinced me and Alvin to live in the present.
Enjoy each day that we're given to spend with one another. Workdays are quite busy so we make an effort to do something special over the weekends.
I decided to make another blog. This time not much words are written. Hopefully, through this, Alvin and myself, of course, Liam and Sam can remember most of their childhood and how they spent it with us.
A little keepsake from those happy weekends or family bonding sessions, sometimes with just the four of us, or sometimes with family -- Titos, Titas and cousins and of course, with friends.
An attempt to chronicle our beautiful memories.
The Chronicles of Familia B.
Visit us at: www.chroniclesoffamiliab.blogspot.com
:)
The death of some of our friends convinced me and Alvin to live in the present.
Enjoy each day that we're given to spend with one another. Workdays are quite busy so we make an effort to do something special over the weekends.
I decided to make another blog. This time not much words are written. Hopefully, through this, Alvin and myself, of course, Liam and Sam can remember most of their childhood and how they spent it with us.
A little keepsake from those happy weekends or family bonding sessions, sometimes with just the four of us, or sometimes with family -- Titos, Titas and cousins and of course, with friends.
An attempt to chronicle our beautiful memories.
The Chronicles of Familia B.
Visit us at: www.chroniclesoffamiliab.blogspot.com
:)
Sunday, July 1, 2012
Alvin's Birthday
This year we had a very simple celebration.
We had luncheon with immediate family (my brother and sister's families and alvin's uncles' families) at Bungaribee Buffet at Workers Balcktown yesterday.
We went to church to end our Saturday.
Alvin and I waited for 12 midnight and I formally greeted him for his birthday :D
We had to wake up really early today because we had our breakfast at Ikea. Alvin wanted to try it for the longest time. It was our first time to try out their breakfast :D We shopped for some toys and cabinet organizers for the kids.
We then headed off to DFO and we bought the kids shoes.Liam had his first Chucks and Sam had her first Keds. I also bought my sister her request of a RL classic polo shirt and a white RL cardigan for Sam.
Surprised that I didn't succumb to the force of buying something again for myself, considering that Oroton was offering 60% discount on the bags and almost all stores were on sale! (proud moment)
After having lunch at home, we headed off to the CFC Sydney Cluster Assembly.
We headed straight back to our home after the assembly and ate dinner at home. Before we ate dinner we sang "Happy Birthday" to Alvin.
I didn't get to buy him something for his birthday. He still didn't want me to buy him the DLSR camera that he wants. He said he wants it for Christmas. Anyway, I just gave him the money and let him decide what he wants to do with it or where he wants to spend it on. I was okay with this as long as hubby agreed that he will spend it (and not send it, gets?) for himself.
See, this year we didn't have any parties, surprises or the like and the birthday boy was still very happy. It follows that when he is happy, I am happy too! :)
Happy birthday again Papa A! We love you very much!
We had luncheon with immediate family (my brother and sister's families and alvin's uncles' families) at Bungaribee Buffet at Workers Balcktown yesterday.
We went to church to end our Saturday.
Alvin and I waited for 12 midnight and I formally greeted him for his birthday :D
We had to wake up really early today because we had our breakfast at Ikea. Alvin wanted to try it for the longest time. It was our first time to try out their breakfast :D We shopped for some toys and cabinet organizers for the kids.
We then headed off to DFO and we bought the kids shoes.Liam had his first Chucks and Sam had her first Keds. I also bought my sister her request of a RL classic polo shirt and a white RL cardigan for Sam.
Surprised that I didn't succumb to the force of buying something again for myself, considering that Oroton was offering 60% discount on the bags and almost all stores were on sale! (proud moment)
After having lunch at home, we headed off to the CFC Sydney Cluster Assembly.
We headed straight back to our home after the assembly and ate dinner at home. Before we ate dinner we sang "Happy Birthday" to Alvin.
I didn't get to buy him something for his birthday. He still didn't want me to buy him the DLSR camera that he wants. He said he wants it for Christmas. Anyway, I just gave him the money and let him decide what he wants to do with it or where he wants to spend it on. I was okay with this as long as hubby agreed that he will spend it (and not send it, gets?) for himself.
See, this year we didn't have any parties, surprises or the like and the birthday boy was still very happy. It follows that when he is happy, I am happy too! :)
Happy birthday again Papa A! We love you very much!
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