ME time

After several failed attempts to go to the salon for a very much needed hair treatment, it finally happened today.  I realized my last hair rebonding session was two years ago!  It was before I got pregnant with SC.  After that, I basically did all my infrequent nail cleaning myself, and tried to manage my "untamed" hair.

As a mother, I tend to prioritize my family's needs over my own thereby scrimping on things such as hair treatments.  Aside from the fact that I got my hands full, getting a mom's day off is hard to come by.

But I realize that having a "me" time is also very important if I want to keep my sanity.  I need to care for myself if I want to effectively care for my family.  I have yet to learn how to balance my time: time with kids, time with my spouse, time with friends, time alone for myself, time with God.

I am just glad that my husband is supportive of this.  During Mondays, I regularly meet with a group of girl friends for discipleship.  Sometimes, I get apprehensive leaving DS alone to fend for the kids.  But he will assure me and say: "Go ahead, don't mind us, this is YOUR time."   I'm thankful for this.

I also understand him when it is HIS time with his friends for a weekly game of basketball.

And so back to my salon experience.

I had my hair colored done last November 2013 courtesy of Animetric's World's giveaway.  My hair was already very long then!

Today's rebonding session:

BEFORE 

AFTER

During treatment, I got a text message from my employee regarding the store's collection for the day.  I replied by saying I'll inform her as I am not yet home.  She replied :  "Oo nga po ma'm, nagpapaganda daw po kayo."

I was surprised at her candor!  I immediately knew that her information came from my househelper!  I immediately brushed off any ill thoughts and tension by replying in jest saying: "Tama, nagpapaganda ako.  Ang gwapo kasi ng asawa ko, nakakahiya naman kung hindi ako maganda diba?"  =)  

In all honesty, I think I deserve this much needed parlor break, regardless of what others may say and think.  I realized my employee/househelper even had more hair treatments and manicure/ pedicure than me!  So instead of harboring ill feelings, I choose to be thankful that I have househelpers I can trust the kids and the house with. 

I'm satisfied.  

7-year Anniversary

( A late post)

In my last blog entry ( as in waaay back 4 months ago),we made a resolution to date at least once a week.  Well that never happened. Lol.  To say we were preoccupied with a lot of things is an understatement.

Since it is our 7-month anniversary, I was expecting something special from my husband.  That afternoon, he told me to be ready as we will be having dinner elsewhere. I was trying to conceal my excitement by joking that anywhere will do as long as I'm with him. (more cheese please)  He jokingly replied that he already made reservations at Jollibee. (more corn please)  I was surprised alright!

That evening, he brought me to 100 Revolving Restaurant.  It is the only revolving restaurant owned by Chef Jessie.  One can gently feel the slight movement as the restaurant rotates on its axis.  

We were ushered to our seats by the panoramic window overlooking the metropolis.  What a lovely sight for a lovely evening that awaits us.

While choosing from their wide range of menu, the courteous waiter offered us complimentary uhh...bread.  I really cannot pass for a food blogger as I cannot describe food. So I will not try.  Lol.

We stared of with salad (description from the menu)

HIS: Mesclun Greens with tropical fruits and crispy oyster mushroom with raspberry vinaigrette dressing

HERS: Seared tuna salad sprinkled with roasted garlic peanuts, and sesame seeds on a bed of lettuce with paremesan flakes, nori stripes and wasabi vinaigrette dressing

HERS: Clam and corn chowder soup

HIS: French onion Soup

                         

HIS: Grilled Lamb chops with vegetable roulade

HERS: Chilean Sea bass with Pan-fried Gooseliver 

Aside from the delicious food, I was really happy that I am able to spend time alone with my husband.  Married couples should date every so often.  It makes us stay connected and more intimate with each other.   Couples who don't date also tend to talk more about the kids, work, other things, except EACH OTHER!  A listening ear and an interested sincere heart makes up for a good date.  

One time at home, I was feeling a little dejected as I told DS, "Even though we are always together, it seems I don't know you... you feel so distant."  There is no emotional connection.  I am glad DS came up with a topic for us to talk about that evening.  Are you ready? (drumroll please)  "What are the things you learned in our seven years of marriage?"  =) 

Knowing DS for 7 years, I discovered that he is really kuripot.  Five years of going steady and I didn't found that out?? Well, I learned to adapt quite well (didn't I, hon?)  As a wife, I should submit.  He knew I was going to object if I found out that he'll be taking me to a fancy restaurant.  So he kept it a secret from me until we arrived.  

He knew I love to eat. I like trying new dishes and savoring the flavor.  Because of that, he even ordered the best selling dishes on the menu for me!  (I really feel the love hon ♥) While he, on the other hand, cannot distinguish Burger A from Burger B.  As long as it's edible, he eats.  

So what DID we learn?  Seven years seem so long yet so fleeting. During those years, we've already been through a lot, both good and bad.  I realized how blessed we are to have each other.  Yes, there were surprises about our individual personalities that only surfaced after marriage, but that's what commitment is all about.  I appreciate DS for sticking it out with me during the most turbulent time (so far) of our married life, for being my encourager, for always seeing the best and bringing out the best in me.   

We realized that expectations of each other often lead to disappointments, but communicated needs and positive expectations can lead to fulfillment and us becoming better spouses. 

"Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain"  Psalm 127a

100 is located at 33rd floor MDC Bldg. C5 cor. Eastwood Drive Q.C.

Staying in Love Forever

Months ago, DS popped the question whether I would like to join this year's couples retreat.  I was surprised at his initiative but nonchalantly said that it's up to him.  I felt hesitant because it will be another additional expense for the family and also my mind was preoccupied with the kids.  Where will I leave them?Who will take care of them? etc, etc.

Until only a week before the retreat did I started planning.  Praise God for faithful house helpers who willingly sacrificed their day-offs for that weekend.  I praise God also for my parents, brother and in-laws living in close proximity within our area who also willingly took time to watch over our sons.    

My initial apprehension turned into excited anticipation as the days grew near.  Honestly, we've never had any formal dates for the past ....  Trips to Wilcon builder sourcing for materials (just me and my spouse) and then a quick Moonleaf afterwards would make me feel so happy already.  Mabababaw lang naman kaligayahan ko.  =)  I just enjoy the time with DS, talking while in the car.  Just us - without the kids.  This is what we lack and miss nowadays.

We arrived at the Bayleaf Hotel by 3pm.  It was a very lovely boutique hotel right smack in the historical area of Intramuros.  This is a great place to recommend for foreign or local tourists who wish to explore and experience Manila.  

Our Orange Premier Bedroom! =)

squeaky clean white bathroom

Desk and sitting area 

our luggage surprisingly went with the theme! 

View from our room.  

LCD tv

My handsome husband  =)

In a world where sexual immorality is becoming more and more "accepted", it is truly by the Holy Spirit and both spouses' commitment to each other that will make marriage last forever.  Not just "enduring" each other for the sake of the kids... but STAYING IN LOVE FOREVER.  That is JEC Homebuilder's C.L.A.B.'s theme for this years couples Encounter.   This year marks their 4th year since they started this project and we had never missed one retreat.  Knowing that Rev. Eugene Hao would be the speaker, I was all the more eager to listen and learn because I know this seminar would not be a boring one.  And as  fourth-timers,  I believe in what Rev. Hao said:  that information about marriage or staying in love with your spouse is already all around us.  We know so much about what to do and what not to do.  We've already heard and read it several times.  What we need now is the LIFE-CHANGING POWER only the Holy Spirit can give.

That afternoon, our first session was entitled "A Lasting Marriage". Ephesians 5: 21-33
To summarize:
1.  Be Wise  -  because the days ARE evil.  Our true enemy is the devil, not our spouses! The devil is always on the lookout trying to destroy marriages since the time of Adam and Eve.  So we simply must not allow what God has established - marriage and family.  That is why we need God's wisdom in order for us to stay in love forever.  And it IS possible.

2. Submit to One Another  - self explanatory =D

3. Love Your Spouse Sacrificially and Unconditionally  -  Yes it is not easy for two people coming from 2 different backgrounds and all... but you are COMMITTED to love one another till death do you part.  (Do not ever think of putting poison in your spouse's food)  =)

Divorce or annulment is so rampant because love has been trivialised... people put conditions to why they love a person.  The "I love you IF" , should be replaced with "I love you EVEN IF";  because God hates divorce.

4.  Physical Intimacy or Sex - is very beautiful if done within the boundaries of marriage.  God created it for married couples to enjoy.  Enjoy each others' bodies.  This also requires a good relationship with one another, how you treat each other.

5.  Prayer - 1 Corinthians 7:1-5   This is what I appreciate most in this seminar.  Praying for my spouse is one thing I take for granted before, but now I realized how important and powerful it can be. The most important thing a christian possess is the privilege to communicate with God.  ( MORE ABOUT THIS ON MY NEXT POST)

6. Forgiveness - Without this virtue, it is impossible to last long.  Most of the times, spouses quarrel over petty things that just blows out of proportion.  If you find it hard to forgive, go back to point #3. =)    


That evening we were in for a romantic surprise.  We were told to dress up in a semi-formal attire.  Everyone was in a happy, romantic mood when we entered the Muralla hall.  Our tables were decorated with rose petals, tea light candles and a gift box filled with - ??? Questions for us to talk about while having our date night" on our tables.  I think that was a great idea as some couples might not be used to talking anymore or share their hearts and minds while dating.

 I was expecting a round table for two but they just used our seminar table and transformed it into a dinner table, so we just have to eat side by side.  =)

I really didn't plan our orange luggage, my orange dress and getting an orange room! =D

My date.

the food was delicious!

desserts! 

We were surprised as our names were called;  sweet dance pala.  

If I am not mistaken, we renew our vows every year since we got married.  

That evening was full of romance and laughter.  We were serenaded by a violinist who passed by one table after another playing every couple's requested song.  He was so good!  The songs reminded us all of our wedding day, courtship period... Ahhh bliss.  And of course, we all want that same love to continue, kahit "maputi na ang buhok" namin.   =D

The following morning, we had breakfast at 9 Spoons. The buffet breakfast was good.

We were able to sit beside an overlooking glass window.

It was a cloudy, wet morning

That day was also the scheduled Million People March at Quirino Grandstand to abolish Pork Barrel.  So that explains my husband wearing white. Lol.

Picture Picture

The "Grand Cannon"

I should bring my sons to Intramuros some day.  My AS would love to see this.

The clean interiors of Bayleaf Lobby

We continued to learn from messages two and three for that day.  It was truly a breather for me and DS to have this opportunity to learn and spend time with each other away from our hurried (and harried) everyday lives.  Note to us:  date at least once a week!  =)

Bottom line is:  Include God in your marriages; in your families.  He IS the Author. 

Why Babywearing Is Beautiful

When I was still pregnant with my second son, SB, I didn't buy much baby stuff since I still kept AS' old things; crib, stroller, walker, clothes, toys.  But of course there are some new stuff I had to buy as some are already way too worn, ragged or broken.  One of these is the baby carrier.

Five years ago, when AS was still a baby, we bought a baby carrier at a department store. It was the structured carrier / "backpack type" with all these straps and buckles.  We were able to use it for quite some time until it slowly tear up under the weight of AS.  It was so bulky and albeit AS might have felt uncomfortable in it.

AS at 5 months

During my 8th month of pregnancy with SB, I was fortunate to have discovered the initial launching of Babypalooza Bazaar held at Ateneo.  I saw that My Baby Dragon, who sells Baby K'tan online, was one of the vendors.  I immediately set my mind to buy a K'tan carrier.

At the bazaar, I met the owner of MBD, Tiffany.  She was so friendly and accommodating that I felt like I'm talking to a long time friend.  I can say that the K'tan was the best purchase I made that day.

Today, SB is 3 months old and suffice to say I am very happy with my K'tan.  SB jerks a lot during his sleep because of the sudden sounds around him.  But whenever he is in the K'tan, he can sleep soundly even in a noisy environment.  I love that it is snug-fitting and eases back tension.  It is also a great way to bond emotionally with my baby.  Babywearing is just like being pregnant still, it's just that the baby is now outside the womb and very visible.  For me, wearing my baby in the K'tan is the best fashion accessory.  =D

There is an ongoing giveaway courtesy of MBD through mommy blogger Bebengisms.  Get a chance to win a k'tan of your choice and experience babywearing at its finest. =D  I hope to win another one size bigger K'tan for my husband to also babywear our BIG SB.  =D

Snow White and Prince Charming

This was my book when I was still a little girl.  My mom found it several months ago stashed away in her storage room.

I was wondering how do little boys learn about classic "girly" princesses stories when we as parents do not intentionally buy girly story books to them since of course, they are boys, unless you have a son and a daughter.

Anyway, I began to introduce this book to AS.  I read it to him last night.

We came across this part of the book that read:

Snow White looked into the well and murmured, "I wish that my prince would come."
No sooner had she spoken these words than a handsome young Prince appeared at her side. 
"Princess, you are even more beautiful than in my dreams.  Will you be mine?" (Agad-agad?? Di pwedeng ligaw muna??)
"Oh yes!" replied Snow White.  "I was waiting for you."  (hello?? sagot agad?! ngayon lang kayo nagkakilala... PBB teens?)


So I began to explain to AS what these mean.

Mom :  "Do you know why Snow White was wishing and waiting for Prince Charming?"

AS : "No.."

Mom : "Because it is every girl's, well most girl's dream to find the right husband for her, to become a mom to her own babies, to raise a family.
But there is a right time to get married.  Right now, you are still small.  You need to grow up first. You need to study well to gain knowledge so that when you are already an adult, you can work and earn money for yourself.  That is the right time for you to marry so you can provide food and money for your family."

AS was just listening.


The Prince came to see her everyday at the same hour.
There beside the well they made plans.  "I shall ask the King your father, if we can get married," said prince Charming. 

I paused to explain again.  "Now what the Prince did was good.  He asked permission from Snow White's parents first.  You know, before Daddy married Mom he also asked permission from Gwakong and Gwama first.  That is showing respect.  That is being a gentleman.  When you are old enough to marry, you should also ask permission from the parents.  And also, you need to pray to God to give you the right girl for you to marry."

AS :  "I don't want to pray for the right girl!  I only want to be with you...."

Awww.. =)

Although it feels good as I am savoring this season in his life where I'm the only girl in his life, but at the same time, I'm bracing myself for the inevitable.  The turbulent teenage years... where peer pressure, dating, promiscuity, and a lot more, begin.


No matter how much I try to protect him from the negative influences of the world, I cannot.  I sincerely believe that it is through parental involvement in our kids' lives, values formation early on and intentionally praying for our kids daily can we find peace and protection in God's hands. We as parents can only do so much in teaching, guiding and training them, the rest we leave it all to God.  I pray that AS will grow in the fear of the Lord.

"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. -Proverbs 9:10 "Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it." -Proverbs 22:6