Unfair

Last week, my Kuya Liam had their school's Recognition day!

He surprised both me and Papa when the award that he got was the Academic Excellence award! There are only five awardees in each class and only one got that award. He got a certificate and a gold medal for that.

Being new to everything we didn't know what to expect. Yes, we knew he'd be presented an award a simple certificate and that's it.  Everything that happened that day was a surprise for all of us.

We were all happy of course!

As a proud parent, I shared a short video and a photo of his medal and certificate on my FB account. Real friends sent their warmest and sincere greetings and we, especially Liam was really happy about it!

I just find it unfair when after saying, "Congratulations, Liam!" may kasunod na, "teacher kasi nanay e!" or "Syempre, teacher nanay!" or"Kina-career kasi ng Mama!"

May iba, hindi na sinasabi pero yun ang iniisip!

Grrrr!

So what if he's a child of a teacher?!

So dapat, lahat ng anak ng teacher sa buong mundo puro honor students na, di ba?!

It just so happens that his mum's work is in the field of education!

I find it unfair for Liam.

He has really worked hard to achieve that.

If you have only seen him give up his "gadget time" or play time, even his afternoon naps so he can finish off a book, do extra activity, or finish his homework. This, in addition to balancing his time and energy as he also has tennis training and swimming!

My son got the award not because I am a teacher, but because he deserved it!

Best Rewards

Hi Kuya!

I can't wait for you to turn six as I have found myself really inspired to write your second letter for the year, today.

This week has been a great week for you. Wait, let me change that. This year has been a great year for you, don't you think?

This year, you started with Kindy and you have proven how clever you are! You have excelled academically. You brought home a lot of certificates and awards this year as a reward for all your hardwork. This has made me and Papa really proud and thankful. The school year is almost over yet you still surprise us with something almost every week! My heart leaped for joy when you handed our invites yesterday and yes, I am looking forward to attending our very first Presentation Assembly next week.

You have also excelled in sports. Your tennis skills have improved a lot. You can now rally with your coach and your tennis grade continues to improve each term. You have won first place in your Athletic's carnival for the 100m event. You have succeeded in passing your practicals for your swimming lessons and you are due to move up the next level next term.

This year, you have started attending a Music tuition. This morning, after watching you and the rest of the students perform for your year-end Christmas concert cum recital, I was again very happy and proud when they chose you among the seven recipients of the Outstanding Effort award from all the students from K-2. You have proven that you can also excel on that area.

Well rounded? Very much!

This week alone, I have been overwhelmed with that happy feeling because of all these achievements. I feel elated! But like what Papa and Mama always tell you, these awards are just bonuses. It's more important that you have done your best, tried again when you failed, learned from your mistakes and enjoyed yourself.

But you know what son, what makes us prouder are stories about you that proves what kind of a person you are.

Story 1. We attended Mindy and Molly's birthday party and you met a new Tito (sorry Mama forgot his name!). Tito was in-charge of balloon twisting and because you were amazed as to how he can make a lot just by twisting balloons, you decided to stay with him, observe him and share stories with him. When we were about to go home, Tito told Mama that you are such a beautiful kid. "Liam is very polite and well-mannered." Hearing that from a new acquaintance was music to our ears. I was very proud of you son!

Story 2. Mama promised to make it up to you as soon as I'm done with all my teaching blocks. The first day I brought you back to school, a fellow parent comes up to me and introduces herself. She tells me she's the Mum of one of your best mates. She tells me about how her son adores you and how her son has never forgotten your act of kindness. Your mate didn't have a hat so he was not allowed to play in the field during lunch (No Hat, No Play policy of the school!). He just stayed in the silver seats with no one to play with. Then here comes you. You left all your other friends in the field and stayed with your mate so he will have someone to play with! No one asked you to do that, not even your mate!  When I told you the story when we got home, you said, you can't remember it. Well, it proves that you really have a good heart! It may mean nothing for you, but for your friend, it did and he will forever remember it, anak!

These stories are the real rewards, anak. These are the best rewards for me and Papa!


God has given you everything that we have prayed for. It is only our prayer that you continue to grow up with a good heart and use everything that He has given you for His greater glory!

We are proud of you anak!

Keep up the good work!

Papa and Mama (and yes, Sammie too!) are here for you, all the time!

We love you to bits, Bits!

What makes me happier now is that you can now read all the letters I have been writing for you every year :-)

Love,

Mama

Liam 5 .5

Kuya!!!!!

My dear Kuya! 2013 is half-way thru and it only means that you're now five and a half years old! I plan to continue writing letters to you and your sister every year. I am more excited knowing that you can already read a lot of words with ease and you can easily read now my letter for you.

Happy ka na no? You're too excited to turn six years old because you're excited to start losing your teeth-- your baby teeth, not for any other reason, but because you're eagerly awaiting what the Tooth Fairy will be giving you. How much the Tooth Fairy will be giving you!

Well, before you turn six years old, allow me again to write to you the highlights of the year as I remember them. I might miss some again, but hopefully I don't miss out on the big ones.

Early this year, we went to my friend's house with your Lolo and Lola. Unfortunately, their child who cannot still speak well was so "violent" when you guys played together. Nakita ko at ng mga Lolo at Lola mo, kung pano ka nagpigil kahit sinapok sapok ka na at sinakal nung batang kalaro mo. Ilang beses ka binatukan pero di mo siya pinatulan. Nagpigil din kami ni Papa. When I talked to you about it in the car, you told me: "Yes, I was about to cry Mama but I stopped myself. He is younger than me." You gained my respect that night, anak. I was very proud of you. Yes, he is the same age as your sister, but technically you are still a kid too, and you could've easily hurt him, grabbed the toys he grabbed from you or cried or tell him in to his parents every time he hit you. But you didn't. You totally controlled yourself. Bravo, anak!

This year, you started attending the big school and boy, did you like it! No, make that, LOVE it! You brought home your first Blue Award on the second day of school! Earned 15 Blue Awards for the first  two terms and earned an Assistant Principal's Award after one semester. You really do continue to make me and your Papa really proud. Your initial reading level is at Level 10 whereas most of my Kindy students can't even read Level 2 books! You were one of the students chosen by your teacher to read the longest parts during the Kindy assembly when your class was the host! Galing galing ng stage presence! And I saw how you tried to overcome reading and pronouncing the difficult words like "cooperative" until you mastered and perfected it. Good habits anak, keep it up!

You love to write and you eagerly share your story especially on Monday afternoons after you have written your Recount in school. Now on school holidays, I saw how interested you are in writing. Hindi na pwede i-claim ng Papa mo yang area na yan! Yung Math, fine sa kanya na, pero ang writing? Sa akin na yun! hehehe Keep it up anak. Continue to improve yourself on the things that you love to do.

Yes, initially we had little arguments as we tried to establish your study habits -- doing homework, etc. -- but by and by you got the hang of it. Now, you can pace yourself well, not doing a lot on day one and not being too relaxed too.

But I think I still need to follow up your skills in packing up your things especially after doing your homework. ;-)

There was one major event that happened early this year when I saw how high your EQ was. I was called at work to fetch you from school because you were ill. I was in a dilemma because it was my first day back at work after all the cancellations I made the week before. To make the long story short, when I arrived to finally pick you up, I was expecting you'd cry as soon as you see me or that you'd be panicking already after the long wait you did...but no. You were composed. You had grace under pressure. Ako pa nga yung na tense and naiyak. Ikaw pa yung concerned if I was okay to think ikaw yung may sakit. I wish I had the same anak.

You have become more independent and I am now assured wala akong magiging problema when your sister starts big school. Kasi ngayon pa lang, kaya mo na alagaan sarili mo e.

At home, you and your sister have your episodes, aso't pusa moments, but when you've had a good afternoon nap or night's rest, you willingly give way and spoil your sister. Yung requests and whims ng kapatid mo, pinagbibigyan mo. Pag bati kayo ng kapatid mo ang saya-saya namin ng Papa mo kasi grabe yung level ng kulitan niyo ni Sammie e! Wrestling, habulan, hay!

May mga cheeky moments ka rin. Like one time I caught you making faces and trying to imitate me while I was lecturing you about something! Lokong bata! Pero natawa kami ng Papa mo. Anak, please be patient with Mama and Papa when we lecture you and re-instill values we want you to grow up with. Mahaba-haba pa ang lalakbayin natin. You're only 5 years old!

Papa and I observed that for a time you were getting addicted to the gadgets at home. There was one incident when Papa told you during one of your silly moments that you MIGHT not be allowed to use the tablet or iPad anymore, we were surprised when you actually followed it and reminded me about it when we got home and I told you to use the iPad first so you won't be bored anymore. Your exact words: "Mama, Papa said I can't use the tablet or iPad." When I told the story to your Papa, pati siya nagulat kasi he was just using it para "umayos" ka...not really serious about it. But well, because of that you proved that we can trust you. Now, even after Papa and I decided that no gadgets, iPads or Xbox from Sunday night up until Thursday night, you have no BIG issues about it. Well, sometimes you do, but when we explain things, you follow kahit labag sa kalooban mo hehehe :) Anyway, sometimes you get exemptions especially after you did good in school or at home. :-)

Lunch orders were part of your prize for getting Blue Awards but one time, after you brought home one Blue Award after the other, I joked about having no money anymore for your lunch order. You know what your reply was? "Mama, it's okay. I won't have lunch order anymore." Syempre, natameme na naman ako. Na-guilty tuloy ako. Instead of buying my lunch at school I decided to just prepare my lunch at home. Kung ikaw nga nagtitipid, e di ako din.

Your personality is still evolving. Ngayon, ayaw mo na ako halikan sa harap ng mga schoolmates mo huhuhu dami mo ng tanong...you have the tendency to compare yourself or our family with others...it's something that we will be working on...it's something we will be praying for. Remember what I always tell you, you don't have to do or you don't have to have what other people do or what other people have. God will give you what you need and what is best for you. Speaking of which, around March or April of this year, you learned how to pray the Rosary. I am happy anak. When Ben was blessed by Fr. Ruben, he was surprised when he heard you recite the prayers with ease. Another new fan! :-)

When my left eye got injured, you were so concerned. You always reminded your sister that I was not well and willingly did errands one of which was being my guide everytime I moved around the house especially when I go up or down the stairs.

I hope that as you grow older and even if you see other kids doing things that your Papa and I do not permit you to do, you'd stick with our rules. I hope that you'll continue to mature in a responsible and good way. I hope too that you'd not grow up so fast! Don't wish to grow up and get old quickly, enjoy your childhood anak.

I know that we've told you a lot of times how lucky you are for having to enjoy a lot of things that your Papa and I only got to enjoy when we were working already! Kaya, appreciate everything that you have now anak.

Hopefully, as you get older, we can instill in you the value of hardwork, love for work,  giving your best and never giving up especially now na mas marami ka ng naiintindihan :-)

Thank you anak for being you.

Till my next love letter.

I love you Kuya!

Love,
Mama

Surprise, Surprise!

I'm a happy and proud mum.

Last Monday, my son brought home his first blue award from school.

Then yesterday, while checking his bag for school notes, I saw another blue award!

Two blue awards for one week? Just on his second week in school?

I'm not complaining :)

It says in the handbook that a Deputy Principal Award will be given after the kids have collected 15 blue awards.

A principal medallion after the next  15 blue awards.

I'm very proud of you Kuya Liam!

It's just unfortunate that I wasn't there when it was presented because on both days, I had work :(

But I'm happy because it only proves that you enjoy going to school :)

And So It Begins!

And so it begins!

Another chapter of my son's journey starts today.

He is now in Kindy. Yes, the big school!

As you start with this chapter:

We pray you'll find learning fun and enjoyable.

Meet friends you can have for keeps.

Learn about life, inside and outside the four walls of your classroom.

Realize the value of hardwork and perseverance.

Savour the fruits of your labour.

There's no denying, it's time for me and Papa to let go of you some more.

So, go ahead, spread your wings some more and start making good memories. Don't be afraid to make mistakes and try again. They are one of life's best teachers ;)

We're here to support you.

Remember that wherever you may go, Papa, Mama and Sammie are always here for you. We will always be here for you.

We love you, Kuya Liam!

Note: I cried last night and this afternoon. Just a mum,  getting sentimental :)

the night before :)

even the props are all set!

before leaving the house

Waiting for his teacher to collect their class.

first output for the year, which he read by himself. the only one in class who was able to read  it :)

Will I Have A Friend

I borrowed this book from the library two weeks ago. As soon as Alvin read it to Liam, he fell in love with the book.

Maybe because he saw himself in the main character.

Liam wanted to keep the book.

I told him he can't keep it because we had to return it to the library.

He got sad but didn't act up. He followed me.

He realy wanted the book.

And since the story was about a boy who was about to go to the big school, I decided to buy one for him.

I placed the order last week, and today, on the last day of his Kindy transition, the book was delivered.

I call it perfect timing :)

I reccommend this book to parents whose kids might be going to the big school or a new school. It somewhat verbalizes one of their fear and reassures them that they will find friends in school.

I hope that through this book, he will continue with his blossoming relationship with reading :

Kindy Transition

Liam attended his Kindy transition for three consecutive Fridays.

During the first meeting, he had plenty of questions prior our arrival to his big school. When we got there, he got excited when he saw other kids lining up getting their id. The kids were divided into five groups. He was assigned in the pink room. It was only for forty minutes and for the first week, the focus was on literacy.

While they practiced inside the rooms, the parents had a mini orientation in the Library. The Assistant Principal for Kindergarten explained their Literacy program.

After forty minutes I came back to pick him up. The first thing he told me when I met him? "Mama, I liked it!"

Whew! Indeed a sigh of relief!

He got more excited when we went straight to the Uniform shop to get his Summer uniform. We also got his Sport uniform, hat and library bag. Those alone cost $250!!!! We still need to buy him his school shoes, joggers, and jumpers.

For the second week, they had Maths. He was counting the days until it was Friday again. Like during the first week, he enjoyed their session. He was too eager to share that they talked about shapes that morning. No uniform shopping today.

Third week was the final day for their Kindy transition. They had Health as their theme and while they were in the classroom, the parents had coffee time. It was an opportunity to mingle and meet not only with the teachers and administrators but also with fellow Kindy parents. I got to ask and clarify issues with the Asst Principal without having to speak in the big crowd :) I got to meet two Filipino parents whose older kids also go to QHPS. I'm starting to establish my network.

After picking up the kids from their assigned classrooms, we headed off to the COLA area where the different school clubs presented a special number. Seeing different kids sing, dance and play musical instruments got my little boy more excited.

We skipped the morning tea with the other parents and headed home with a big smile on his face.
And talk about perfect timing, the book he requested for us to buy arrived today! :) We bought it for him as a reward and as a motivation :)

Overall, the programme helped him prepare and wait in anticipation for the start of the big school next year. The question now is, am I ready?

Here are some photos I took for the last three weeks.

first week was on Literacy



second week focus was on Maths

third and final week on health with Mrs. Macdonald here

Colour Blindness

Liam can't see the number 5 in green dots

Have you encountered those annoying ads in some newspaper websites which asks you if you can see the number in a pool of orange 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 :)

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.

"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.

Unexpected Comments

As a mom (and a parent) wouldn't you feel proud if just out of the blue, you get praises and comments for your kids?

The past two weeks, I did. Nakakataba ng puso.

Liam's real teacher in pre-school was away and a casual teacher came in. Dismissal time, I gave him 5 minutes to still play in the school's outdoor playground before heading home. When the bell rang, I asked him to wash his hands first because I saw him playing with soil and wood chips in the garden. So off he went. I followed him. The casual teacher, who I only saw that day, saw me following him. She then asked me if Liam is my son. I nodded and said "yes."

Then came this: " Your son is very good. He was being a leader inside the class. He was acting like a teacher inside the class and the rest followed him. When he stopped, everybody waited until he decided what they will do next. He was leading the class. He was very good."

I was speechless.

The following week, Liam's real teacher Donna told me during our little chat: "Liam was extra good today. He welcomed the new student in class, talking to him and making him feel welcome." Then Liam came and Donna said: "Right Liam? You've been making friends with your new classmate, Mohhamed?" Liam just smiled and bowed his head.

These uguarded moments and unexpected comments from his teachers (or sometimes strangers) are the ones that inspire me and his Papa to do better.

He still has his "topaks" especially when he doesn't get a good afternoon nap, but overall I think Liam is really a beautiful kid, inside and out.

Bow and Arrow

My boy obviously is now into super heroes, especially after watching the Avengers with his Papa.

He is very much smitten with the bow and arrow that Hawkeye uses. He asked me for the longest time to make him one.

I did. My output made from recycled materials is far from being perfect, but it was enough to put a priceless smile on my son's face.

Happiness!  :-)

Updates on the Big School

Last Thursday, I and Liam had an interview with the Deputy Principal of Quakers Hill Public School. The interview went well. Liam was a bit shy and always looked at me before he answered the questions, but he did pretty well for a first-timer. It was a very informal one. I also had the chance to ask questions.

After the very short interview, the Deputy Principal toured us around the campus. It's like giving me a personal parents' orientation!

She gave me a welcome pack already so I can read and know more about the school. Although at this point, we are still on the waitlist. The committee which will decide on the number and who among those waitlisted will be given the opportunity to enroll for next school year. The school will keep in touch and I was informed that we will be hearing from them latest September.

Before the interview, I was already settled and somewhat decided that we will just let Liam go to Barnier. After the interview, I am now convinced that Quakers Hill Public School might just be the school for our little boy. My issues on technology and their programmes for advanced kids are just one of the many reasons why I am reconsidering. They have before and after school care within the school, they have many extra-curricular activities being offered to kids, they have Scripture classes as well. Even Liam changed his mind after our trip.

The waiting (and the harder part) part now begins. I will keep you posted when I receive (hopefully, the good news) the letter from the school.

We are still discerning for it, but we might just take it as a sign, if ever we are considered in that school :D

My Son Can Now Read!

Yes, all my patience and hardwork has paid off  :-)

Liam can now read on his own. Simple words and simple sentences. He is still not a perfect reader, but he is getting there. I was able to record it but the file is too big for blogger. I was able to upload it though in my Facebook account  :-)

Of course, not everyone gave the thumbs up sign :p who cares? It doesn't matter :)

I just feel proud because it is a personal achievement for both me and my son. I feel a different kind of high seeing him now, comparing him and looking back at how he was when we were just starting. When I hear him read to me, struggle to read the words correctly, sound out each letter top come up with the word and overcome it --all music to my ears. Feel na feel ko ang pagiging nanay, dahil ako ang nagturo sa anak ko magbasa. Sorry, but I won't give credit to his teachers in pre-school and in childcare because formal reading is taught in the big schools. Early childhood education here are all play-based unlike in Manila. Weird, huh?

I know this is only the beginning and it's still a long way for my little boy.But as they say, the first step is usually the hardest, once you've made that, the rest is history.

Another milestone Kuya Liam, reading at the age of 4 years and 4 months :D Another proud moment for both me and your Papa! Great job, Kuya!!!

Looking forward to more reading bonding nights with you.  :-)

Looking Forward

I am an excited mum :D

Next year, my little big Kuya will already be going to the big school! Yes, there is no stopping them from growing up!

Anyways, as of this writing we have two choices.

One: Barnier Public School.  I got the application form yesterday and submitted it today.

According to the school secretary, he is already accepted, officially enrolled, since we are within the area of the school. Yipee!

Hubby and I are considering this school as our top choice.  Barnier Public School  is a Technology school. It is only a few blocks away from our place. It's beside the present pre-school of Liam. It is the same school where his Kuya Lance and Ate Anika go to. In other words, it will be very convenient.

We think that technology is really here for good. It is the thing of the present and the future. There is no way we can stop technology from being a part of our daily lives. So I guess, it will benefit him to be familiar and to learn thru technology.

I am more at peace knowing that he has older cousins attending the same school.

What about his RE classes? They have Scripture classes every Tuesday :D

Now, option 2: Quakers Hill Public School.

Kuya Lance will be taking the placement test for Opportunity classes for Year 5. If he passes, he will transfer to Quakers Hill Public School. We are not in the local area so I think we will be in the waiting list.

Why are we considering this school? We also plan to have Liam try out in the Opportunity classes when he reaches Year 5. But we are considering the social implications if he starts in Barnier and transfer him later on in Quakers Hill Public School (if he gets accepted in the OC Programme). By that time, I'm pretty sure he has already established his friends in Barnier. Hubby and I are thinking, if accepted, we will push thru with Liam's enrollment in QHPS as well. Might as well let him start in QHPS than transfer him later in Year 5. That way we have addressed the social implications of him establishing a new set of friends and adjusting to the school all over.

I am still not familiar with QHPS. It is not a technology school but from the feedback and the school ranking, it is performing really well. It will not be very convenient for though because it is still a ten-minute drive from our place. And I have to study the other details like OOSH or Day Care Centres available near the school.

The school-choosing thing is the serious part. Now for the fun part!


Now, what am I looking forward to? Why all the excitement?

As you very well now, I am a primary school teacher here. Working on a casual basis, I was given the chance to handle different year levels, from Kindy to Year 6, in different schools. Just last week, I handled a Kindy class. And I just can't help but ask myself and imagine what kind of student Liam will be.

Will he be like me? I am no nerd and I don't consider myself bright. I am just diligent and hardworking. I plan and organize things ahead of time. I follow the teacher and I do not like breaking the rules. No fun, huh? hehehehe Hindi ako kalat at makupad, medyo OA nga lang sa aga mag-prepare at mag-aral lalo na pag may exams. I am one chatterbox. I panic when I miss deadlines! Ehem, I am an academic achiever from elementary up until college (okay, even in my Masters :p)

Will he be like his Papa? He is not a nerd as well, but he is naturally intelligent. He is the type na hindi mag-aaral kahit ang dami-dami ng dapat aralin. He will just start studying the day before the exams and still manage to get good grades. He is Mr. Cool, not worrying even if he misses a deadline. He has problems in planning and organizing stuff. Medyo kalat, sorry Papa :D He is the silent achiever.

Will he be like some of the students that I have met over the year? Madaldal pero nakakagawa at may natatapos. Mr. Tulala or Mr. Dead-ma?, "Mr. I Can't Do This!" (I hope not!)? Tahimik, makupad at walang natatapos? Makupad? Kalat? Kalimotero? Maayos at mabilis?

Exciting, huh? :D

I promised myself that I will not be a stage mum, but it doesn't mean that I will not get involved in my son's studies.

Like in my previous post, I will still continue to give him his fare share of stress (ooops) when it comes to studying. I plan to establish his study habits as early as now so we will not be having any troubles when he gets older. I will continue to give him supplementary exercises so he is always one step ahead. (So he will not have a hard time adjusting when he gets to Secondary School where all students start to get stressed because of HSC!)

But secondary school will be a totally different story.

One step at a time.

I still have to wait though for the official letter from the school in the post (probably next term) informing us of his acceptance and the next steps that we need to do.

I can see that Liam is excited as well. He just doesn't know that I am more excited!

Can't wait :D

Mothers' Day 2012

This year since both kids go to childcare, I had additional gifts from them :)

This was from Liam's outputs from Yogies

This was Sam's outputs from Yogies

Another output of Liam from Yogies

And of course, being a mum to Liam and Sam has its other perks. Hubby gave me four new Pandora charms and a new bracelet for the special occasion.

Four more Pandora bracelet charms and a new bracelet :D

Thank you, Liam, Sam and Papa for your presents. They are very much appreciated. But I am already happy with the hugs, kisses, cuddles and I love yous you give me everyday. Not that I'm complaining hehe

I hope you also had your share of beautiful presents, unforgettable moments and stories as you celebrated this special day!

Cheers to all of us mums, single mums, dads who are mums to their kids and grandmas out there! :)

Motherhood is the greatest and most beautiful gift I have ever  received in my life. Just humbled to have been given the chance to experience it.

Being Prayed Over

I have been prayed over a LOT of times already. So I am not really new to being prayed over.

But being prayed over by my 4 year old son?

Guess how I felt when he did.

Are you for real, anak?

What did I do to deserve such a good boy like you?

Like in my previous posts about my son, I am writing this because I want to remember something special that my son did.

Wednesday: Sam had the tummy bug and since Wednesday I have been doing laundry, heavy laundry, aside from the usual chores at home.

Friday: kids went to childcare. at breakfast I already felt something different in my body. When I picked them up, I was informed that Liam had vomiting episodes. Now, that makes us three. no, that makes us five, since Anika, and Lance also showed the symptoms of the tummy bug. Even if I was feeling sick already, I decided to wash their beddings and soiled clothes from childcare (because I wanted to get rid of the germs and eliminate of the germs having another go at our home and making the kids sick). Result, by dinner time I was having chills. I really needed to drink medicine.

After dinner, Liam was playing with the tablet. I was having chills.

Liam (looking so concerned): Mama, do you like me to play your song?
Me: is it okay?
Liam: yes (he then selects "A Thousand Years" from the list of songs from the tablet, as it has been my current favorite.)

Liam: Is that a relaxing song mama?
Me: yes
Liam: Don't worry mama, I will take care of you.

Liam then goes to my side and gives me a massage at the back, asking me if it was making me feel better.

Liam: Don't worry mama, when you are sick, me, Papa and Sam will take care of you.

Liam then starts to pray, makes the sign of the cross and prays over me! Asking Jesus that I feel better already. He prays it with so much sincerity and concern, I already felt better just listening to him and looking at him pray over me.

Mother's Day is fast approaching, but who needs gifts or cards when you get to experience something really special like this? I really felt loved and special that moment. I didn't cry but I had an overwhelming feeling inside me. I felt I was in good hands. I felt that I can count on my son.

Thank you, Lord for the gift of my son.

Thank you, Lord for the gift of prayer.

Thank you for that very special and humbling experience of my son praying for me.


Liam praying for me was more than enough, but he still gave me these early presents for this year's Mother's Day. The tree was an output  from his Pre-school and the card was  an output from the KFC assembly last Sunday.

Speechless Moments with Liam

Dear Son,

As promised I will be writing to you again soon, as my way of preserving the beautiful memories your Papa and I have with you.

You are growing up fast! Last time I remember you were Fireman Sam's number 1 fan! But now, things are slowly changing! You are now entertained by Ben10, Superheroes, Power Rangers! Yes, no more Thomas the Train, Wiggles, even Barney. Hay.

Uh-oh.

But as you grow older, you are becoming more thoughtful and sweeter.

The past few weeks you have bombarded us with statements that left us, speechless. Just speechless. But our hearts melting and our eyes, well, a bit teary-eyed.

Here are some of them:

You:"Guess what Mama?"
me: "What?"
You: "I love you very much!"

You whispering something to me:
"I'm going to tell you something Mama. I love you very much!"

You caught me there young boy!

Just last Monday, after our Easter holidays at the Gold Coast, on our way to the airport, while I was putting on your seatbelt:
"Salamat Gold Coast. Thank you Mama for buying our things and for Papa for giving the money to buy my Batman mask. Don't worry Mama, when I grow up, you know, like Papa and have work, I will give you and Papa money money."

And last night up until today, you started asking me:
"Guess how much I love you Mama? All the way to the moon and back!"

And realizing that other planets are farther than the moon, you take turns in using each of the planets to signify how much you love me.

You are one very thoughtful kid. You are an amazing kid!

How on earth does a 4 year-old think and say these kind of things? I don't remember saying such things even when I was already earning my own money!

How do you do that? I can't explain the feeling that your Papa and I feel everytime you tell us things like that!

We thank the Lord for allowing you to verbalize your appreciation of the things we do and give you. Motivates us to do better, BIG TIME!

We are lucky and blessed to have you as our son. We continue to pray for you and Sammie. She is one lucky girl too to have you as her Kuya.


See how lucky Sam is for having you as her Kuya? This was taken on our last night at Gold Coast over the Easter holidays. Papa and Mama will never get tired of seeing the two of you like this.

Like what I wrote last time, we know that you are not perfect and we don't ask you to be (although sometimes you might feel that we are actually asking you to be one, sorry). Just to let you know that we are proud of you and are very happy to see you grow up like this.

Always remember that we love you very much ( all the way to 1,000, 000 moons and back!)

Love,

Mama

We will be forever grateful to our Lord for entrusting you to us. We hope that in the coming years, we will continue to be better parents for you and your sister.

Decisions

Last night, I attended the parent's meeting set by Liam's teachers at Goddard Crescent. It was a first for me. I don't remember them calling for one last year :)

I was actually starting to feel lazy and I wanted to back out the last minute. Not to mention that I was running late since I had to wait for Alvin to get home before I can leave. It was an adult-only event so no kids allowed.

The meeting went smoothly. I was just at the receiving end. Explanations on practices were given until one mum shared a story about his nephew and that caught my attention. A little background, the education system here is a bit laid back (a bit? who are you kidding?! for me, it's way too laid back hehehe). See here in Australia, the primary schooling of kids are set in such a way that the kids are not stressed in school. It is quite laid-back as compared to Manila. I just can't help but compare the system here and in Ateneo (or in most schools in Manila). If in Manila, the whole process of getting and being educated is stressful and tedious here, it is not.

Imagine, kids in pre-school are not taught how to read and write. Formal learning starts when they go to Kindy, in the big school. It was explained this evening that play is actually teaching the kids a lot. We might think that they are just playing, but they are actually learning. The one that was shared which bothered me a bit was that we have to be careful of teaching our kids too much ahead of time because in the case of her nephew who went to Kindy, it was a major issue. The kid got so bored because he already knew how to read and write, as compared to majority of the class that were just starting to learn. He got isolated. (Note: I wasn't able to ask the mum what the school did. Not that I think my son is gifted or anything, but I just wanted to know how the school addressed the concern. Why? In Ateneo, if we see an exceptional or a "fast" kid, there are procedures that we can do to have the kid formally assessed --of course when the kid is assessed to be gifted, passes all the requirements, goes up one or two levels higher it will also have social implications and parents should be ready for that).

Reading the biography of Steve Jobs now is no help as well. There was one part in the book that shared the reasons why Steve kept on doing pranks in school. They were triggered by his boredom. He already knew those things and he wasn't challenged! (Again, I am not assumming that my son is gifted).

It caught my attention because I have been teaching Liam every now and then at home. Not formal and strict teaching ok. Supplemental teaching. I let him practice writing his letters (They have a NSW Foundation Font here). I let him do some maths, because I felt he was interested in it! I am just nurturing his interests. After reading the book "Raising Boys" my whole idea of how to raise my son changed. I got to know how it is with young boys and where they are coming from. I teach him when I feel he is up for it. I can sense when the "teachable moment" is for him. Walang pilitan in other words. It is paying off because rarely do we argue now when I teach him. It is an enjoyable time for both Liam and myself. Sometimes while we play we count from 1-100. Sometimes when he wants a hug, he asks me for a thousand hugs, so we get to practice skip counting by hundreds till we reach 1000. I am just supporting him in his interests. When I ask him to do some worksheets and he says can I just finish one page, I let him just do a page. What am I driving at? I am just grabbing those opportunities, rare and golden "teachable moments," because I feel it's sayang when I don't do something.I am not forcing him. But still, he might end up being advanced with the rest of his classmates when he starts with Kindy.

Now I am scared! Hubby and I actually talked about it last night. I asked hubby about me giving supplemental lessons to Liam. Well, hubby did make sense. Liam is not really advanced. He still needs a lot of practice in his writing and his reading. We can sense that he is good with numbers and we decided to just continue to give those relaxed supplemental lessons every now and then. Observing him as well, we can see that he has this positive attitude towards school so I guess we're on the right track here.

Hay, whoever said parenting was easy?

With these daily decisions, we just have to pray for wisdom and hope that everything turns up okay for our kids and their future!

Back to Yogies

Today I am writing my blog in peace.

Liam is back to daycare. The big difference is, Sam is now with him.

I have no substitution call today so I am alone in the house.

The past three days, Liam has been hinting every now and then how he will miss me when he goes back to Yogies.

Sam last night was a bit uneasy in her sleep. I don't know what time it was but she kept on waking up calling out for either me or her Papa. She even woke up as soon as I finished taking a bath (around 6am).

I don't know if they can feel the uneasiness inside me. The fear and the worry inside me.

It's really very hard leaving your kids to somebocy else's care. Part of me feels guilty, but another part says I shouldn't. Why would I when there are millions of moms out there who either leave their kids in childcare or with nannies, right? Sundays to Wednesdays I am a full-time mum to them. When they are not in daycare, I am the one who personally takes care of them. And it hasn't reached that point when they prefer their teachers/carers over me!

I also think I need this break every now and then. It recharges me and I am pretty sure it will make me less (or not at all!) grumpy to my kids and my hubby when they get home. I can take care of them better, right?

We have prayed for this so I know that we are on the right path. I should not worry because it is now that FAITH comes in.

I can only pray and hope that my kids are ok (with the trained childcare workers); that their carers/teachers will help us, help them hone their God-given talent and skills,and lastly, won't have any bad effects on their development. I know they are in a good centre. They did a good job with Liam so I am less worried about how they are going to take care of Sam. In addition to the old and veteran teachers who took care of Liam before, a new carer in the centre happens to be a kababayan.

So I really shouldn't worry, right?

Am I convincing you or myself?

Probably just convincing myself. :)

P.S.

I have called their daycare twice and good to hear that Liam is doing well and Sam is too.

It was funny because when I left them Sam didn't cry! (I was the one who cried back in the car!) :)

A mum will always be a mum.