the plunge...
the loop
the hill...
the engineer...Tuesday, March 20, 2007
a day in the snow...
excited to go snowboarding
instructions from the expert
all bundled up...
brrrr......
professionals...
Christmas Pix
Oh Christmas tree, oh christmas tree...
Gifts galore!!!
tres marias
first christmas together... wish tatay is here.
my favorite part...
giant puzzle book for grandma...
dex and sandy
are you guys done yet?
my turn
snapshots
My Dad's birthday dinner...
Lemony Axel :p
My sis n hubby
kidos
mom
done eating yet?
my nephew, EriksonWednesday, March 14, 2007
Tickle tarot card reading
Your Present
While we often think we are aware of all that is happening in our lives, sometimes the card we choose regarding the Present provides deeper insight than we are able to tap into on our own. Carefully consider the Tarot's following assessment of your present, and see what the cards are trying to teach you about situations occurring in your life right now.
The Hierophant
The Hierophant represents the primary influence on the current state of your life. Right now, in your present, you may be faced with the dilemma of whether to put the good of your community over your own desires. In order to achieve the approval you long for, you're likely being asked to make decisions that won't rock the boat too much. In making your decision, try not to allow conformity to cloud your decision. Instead, form beneficial alliances and consider the benefits of tradition.The Hierophant is the sixth card in the Major Arcana. He blesses the two priests who are kneeling at his feet. Between the priests are a pair of crossed keys, signaling the unity of heaven and earth. In his clothing, each color is highly symbolic: a red robe representing the kingdom of earth, the white trim for purity, and his gold triple crown representing the kingdom of heaven. This card represents tradition and the pressure to conform. The Hierophant is the educator, seeking to communicate a common religious or philosophical viewpoint in a common language all can understand. The Hierophant also rules marriage, public education, and traditional medicine. He signifies the need for approval, as well as the need for social values.There are a number of ways this card could be playing out right now. Some possibilities include:
Your Past
Understanding our past decisions and situations can help us derive more from the lessons life is trying to teach us. It's never too late to acknowledge the truths of our past and bring that wisdom into our present and future.
The Empress
Your Future
Knowing what may be coming up in our future allows us to prepare ourselves for the unexpected. The card that represents your future will reveal which lessons are coming up next in your life. You may learn that you're about to enter into a particularly fruitful or easy time, or the cards may predict that you're about to be confronted with the opportunity to learn some of life's more challenging lessons. We each have lessons to learn, and if we avoid them, the cards tell us that they will simply reappear until they are addressed. When life lessons come your way, allow the cards' insight to guide your way as you work through these challenges. Keep in mind that if you successfully learn your lessons, you can then move on to new ones.
Death
Your future, as it currently stands, is represented by the third card you chose. Death is the card of rebirth. At some point soon, you may find yourself in a phase of complete transformation. The past will no longer be applicable to the person you want to become, and thus you'll enter into a period of renewal. When an opportunity presents itself, stave off inertia and hopelessness by welcoming change into your life.The Death card symbolizes transformation and rebirth. In this card, a black skeleton is clad in armor and rides atop a white horse. Death rides toward several figures, including a priest, a child, a woman, and a fallen king. The rose on the banner of life has five petals, which in numerology signifies change and rejuvenation. While the picture is of destruction, the background includes a hopeful image of the rising sun. Death is a sign that it's time to move on in life. This card is about "out with the old and in with the new." Some form of renewal is about to occur in your life.More than any other step of life's journey, this card represents the lessons you must learn and the experiences in store for you in your upcoming karmic destiny. This may impact you in any number of ways, including:
While we often think we are aware of all that is happening in our lives, sometimes the card we choose regarding the Present provides deeper insight than we are able to tap into on our own. Carefully consider the Tarot's following assessment of your present, and see what the cards are trying to teach you about situations occurring in your life right now.
The Hierophant
The Hierophant represents the primary influence on the current state of your life. Right now, in your present, you may be faced with the dilemma of whether to put the good of your community over your own desires. In order to achieve the approval you long for, you're likely being asked to make decisions that won't rock the boat too much. In making your decision, try not to allow conformity to cloud your decision. Instead, form beneficial alliances and consider the benefits of tradition.The Hierophant is the sixth card in the Major Arcana. He blesses the two priests who are kneeling at his feet. Between the priests are a pair of crossed keys, signaling the unity of heaven and earth. In his clothing, each color is highly symbolic: a red robe representing the kingdom of earth, the white trim for purity, and his gold triple crown representing the kingdom of heaven. This card represents tradition and the pressure to conform. The Hierophant is the educator, seeking to communicate a common religious or philosophical viewpoint in a common language all can understand. The Hierophant also rules marriage, public education, and traditional medicine. He signifies the need for approval, as well as the need for social values.There are a number of ways this card could be playing out right now. Some possibilities include:
- You may be feeling pressured by society's expectations in relation to your love life, whether it's to settle down, get married, or start a family.
- Perhaps you are struggling with how to spend your money in a socially responsible way, or you're being asked to share your money with those in your family or community.
- You may be in a situation that is compelling you to put the good of others over your own health and well-being.
Your Past
Understanding our past decisions and situations can help us derive more from the lessons life is trying to teach us. It's never too late to acknowledge the truths of our past and bring that wisdom into our present and future.
The Empress
The Empress exerted a significant impact on your past. This means that at some point in your past, you were likely nurtured and cared for. This period of contentment was a time in which you enjoyed a cycle of great abundance, whether you realized it or not. Your response to this time of prosperity, and the reactions it elicited from others, brought you to the point you're at today.The Empress is the fourth card in the Major Arcana. In this card, the Empress has twelve stars on her crown, representing each of the Zodiac signs. Her heart-shaped shield symbolizes the planet Venus' resonant love and affection. She is surrounded by signs of nature, including the wheat chaffs at her feet and the forest surrounding her. This card represents abundance and great happiness. The Empress is Mother Nature, representing fertility, a thriving romantic relationship, and life contentment. She is your nurturing, mothering side, bringing you comfort and peace.This card may have affected the overall tenor of your life, or just a particular area. Following are a few possibilities for how you experienced these influences in your past:
- You may have received plenty of care and nurturing from your family as a child.
In your social life, you may have enjoyed plenty of friends with whom you shared deep bonds and good times. - You may have experienced a time of abundant love and romance, whether in one particular relationship or in plenty of fun, casual relationships.
Your Future
Knowing what may be coming up in our future allows us to prepare ourselves for the unexpected. The card that represents your future will reveal which lessons are coming up next in your life. You may learn that you're about to enter into a particularly fruitful or easy time, or the cards may predict that you're about to be confronted with the opportunity to learn some of life's more challenging lessons. We each have lessons to learn, and if we avoid them, the cards tell us that they will simply reappear until they are addressed. When life lessons come your way, allow the cards' insight to guide your way as you work through these challenges. Keep in mind that if you successfully learn your lessons, you can then move on to new ones.
Death
Your future, as it currently stands, is represented by the third card you chose. Death is the card of rebirth. At some point soon, you may find yourself in a phase of complete transformation. The past will no longer be applicable to the person you want to become, and thus you'll enter into a period of renewal. When an opportunity presents itself, stave off inertia and hopelessness by welcoming change into your life.The Death card symbolizes transformation and rebirth. In this card, a black skeleton is clad in armor and rides atop a white horse. Death rides toward several figures, including a priest, a child, a woman, and a fallen king. The rose on the banner of life has five petals, which in numerology signifies change and rejuvenation. While the picture is of destruction, the background includes a hopeful image of the rising sun. Death is a sign that it's time to move on in life. This card is about "out with the old and in with the new." Some form of renewal is about to occur in your life.More than any other step of life's journey, this card represents the lessons you must learn and the experiences in store for you in your upcoming karmic destiny. This may impact you in any number of ways, including:
- A complete renewal in your love life, whether that means seeking a new partner or recommitting yourself to exploring your current relationship.
- Your career may enjoy a much needed rebirth, as you transfer your skills to a new job or field.
- Your role in your family may enjoy a surprising transformation. For example, you may become more of a nurturer to someone who traditionally cares for you, or you may achieve more decision-making power in your family.
Monday, February 26, 2007
goodbye, friend...
Maroi, a lady with a heavy Batangas accent... You fought a good fight. Now it is time for you to rest.
Sunday, February 25, 2007
helplessness
Last year, I received word that one of my former classmate and friend was involved in an accident. A jeepney rammed the back of a Toyota FX and my friend was pinned in between. Both her legs was amputated because of this. After that, problems kept popping up one right after the other. I guess the trauma was too much for her body to handle. She's got four kids and I know that they are the reason why she's still fighting till now.
Sometimes life is so unfair. A few days ago, I got word that she was admitted to the hospital again. This time it's because she suffered a stroke. From what my other friend told me, I thought that there might still be a chance that she can recover from this recent drawback. I called my friend today to get an update, she said that since Thursday, our friend at the hospital has gotten worse. They were saying that the damage done to her body is now irreversible.
Miracles can still happen. She can still recover. But failing short of a miracle, it is possible that this might be the end of the road for her. She is still young, still a whole lifetime taken away from her because of a reckless driver. It pains me to think that her children might face a future without the guidance of a mother. I know that she is a fighter, she doesn't give up easily. But what can one do if the body refuses to heed what the mind tells it to do? Only time can tell. Either way, I hope she does not suffer too much.
Sometimes life is so unfair. A few days ago, I got word that she was admitted to the hospital again. This time it's because she suffered a stroke. From what my other friend told me, I thought that there might still be a chance that she can recover from this recent drawback. I called my friend today to get an update, she said that since Thursday, our friend at the hospital has gotten worse. They were saying that the damage done to her body is now irreversible.
Miracles can still happen. She can still recover. But failing short of a miracle, it is possible that this might be the end of the road for her. She is still young, still a whole lifetime taken away from her because of a reckless driver. It pains me to think that her children might face a future without the guidance of a mother. I know that she is a fighter, she doesn't give up easily. But what can one do if the body refuses to heed what the mind tells it to do? Only time can tell. Either way, I hope she does not suffer too much.
Saturday, February 10, 2007
bits n pieces
Have been lazy posting lately... guess I should update.
Kyla got an "A" on her Accounting 1 class. As you can imagine she's very happy about it, but still bugging her instructor to give her her score for the final exam. Ah, such perfectionist attitude. She also started on the spring semester classes. From what she told me, the instructor's a little strict... sorry Kyla, so much for your wandering mind when in class, he he he. She was also supposed to join this Ms. Valentine thingy, but decided not to because she doesn't want to miss any of her classes. Good. I don't have to worry about expenses :p
Axel is also doing very good in his studies. He got a perfect score on their spelling test (again). He's been wondering why some of his classmates don't know how to spell when they were born here and have been speaking English since birth. I won't comment here... could be controversial :) He's a little worried about his history class, which obviously he doesn't know anything about (it being American history). Just told him to concentrate on that subject more since that's the only one he seems to be struggling with. I don't blame him, though, even I am not very good at history, Philippine history or American. It's a wonder I ever passed those when I was in school. He's also busy with his science project. I'll be jumping in pretty soon for the "construction" part. Hope it works the first time.
As for me, I will finally get a day off!!!! This time it's for real. It's official, it's the schedule... Yey! I still have two jobs, but I will work less hours at the other library. It does get old after working seven days a week for more than two years. Aside from that, nothing much happened. Been trying to keep up with both the kids schedule and mine. Hopefully, everything will settle down once the new schedule is in place.
Kyla got an "A" on her Accounting 1 class. As you can imagine she's very happy about it, but still bugging her instructor to give her her score for the final exam. Ah, such perfectionist attitude. She also started on the spring semester classes. From what she told me, the instructor's a little strict... sorry Kyla, so much for your wandering mind when in class, he he he. She was also supposed to join this Ms. Valentine thingy, but decided not to because she doesn't want to miss any of her classes. Good. I don't have to worry about expenses :p
Axel is also doing very good in his studies. He got a perfect score on their spelling test (again). He's been wondering why some of his classmates don't know how to spell when they were born here and have been speaking English since birth. I won't comment here... could be controversial :) He's a little worried about his history class, which obviously he doesn't know anything about (it being American history). Just told him to concentrate on that subject more since that's the only one he seems to be struggling with. I don't blame him, though, even I am not very good at history, Philippine history or American. It's a wonder I ever passed those when I was in school. He's also busy with his science project. I'll be jumping in pretty soon for the "construction" part. Hope it works the first time.
As for me, I will finally get a day off!!!! This time it's for real. It's official, it's the schedule... Yey! I still have two jobs, but I will work less hours at the other library. It does get old after working seven days a week for more than two years. Aside from that, nothing much happened. Been trying to keep up with both the kids schedule and mine. Hopefully, everything will settle down once the new schedule is in place.
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
Apt, don't you think?
| You Are An Iris |
 You are a unique woman who needs a lot of novelty in her life. An inspiration seeker, you often have to change scenery to recharge. You don't deal well with structure or rules. You need to do it your own way. Your ideal relationships are free and flowing. No one can tie you down. |
Saturday, January 27, 2007
a tribute...
Just had my birthday, another year past and another year ahead. Time surely passes by quickly whether you want it to or not... Time waits for no one. Most people celebrate the traditional New Year on January 1st. I on the other hand tend to mark it on my birthday.
For all the great things that happened, a shadow was cast with the passing of my Dad. And for all the things to come, a shadow will stay serving as a reminder that he won't be there to share it with us. For now, and I'm sure for some time to come, the shadow will weigh heavily on my shoulder. I also know that in time, that shadow will be a comforting companion to us all.
To my Dad, who was always there... never faltering in his belief in me, never too far away to lend a helping hand, always enveloping me with his unwavering love... the years ahead are for you...
To my friends, for everything... thank you.
To Dibbs... for being my conscience... words are not enough.
To a long lost friend... glad to have found you again.
To my nephews, for turning out to be bright, loving and compassionate men... you make us all proud.
To my sister, for looking after me... it's my turn.
To my Mom, I know losing Dad is harder on you than any of us. We are all here for you. Both you and Dad did a great job of bringing us up. We would not be where we are right now if not for the two of you. Let us take care of you.
To my children, for being my center, the two of you is why I am... know that I will always be here... I love you.
And lastly, to myself... may you continue to keep the promises you made no matter how hard it becomes. Remember all those who helped mold you into what you are right now. Regret not whatever mistakes you've made, but learn from it. Forget not the past for it is part of your future. Enjoy life and live... believe and you will be.
For all the great things that happened, a shadow was cast with the passing of my Dad. And for all the things to come, a shadow will stay serving as a reminder that he won't be there to share it with us. For now, and I'm sure for some time to come, the shadow will weigh heavily on my shoulder. I also know that in time, that shadow will be a comforting companion to us all.
To my Dad, who was always there... never faltering in his belief in me, never too far away to lend a helping hand, always enveloping me with his unwavering love... the years ahead are for you...
To my friends, for everything... thank you.
To Dibbs... for being my conscience... words are not enough.
To a long lost friend... glad to have found you again.
To my nephews, for turning out to be bright, loving and compassionate men... you make us all proud.
To my sister, for looking after me... it's my turn.
To my Mom, I know losing Dad is harder on you than any of us. We are all here for you. Both you and Dad did a great job of bringing us up. We would not be where we are right now if not for the two of you. Let us take care of you.
To my children, for being my center, the two of you is why I am... know that I will always be here... I love you.
And lastly, to myself... may you continue to keep the promises you made no matter how hard it becomes. Remember all those who helped mold you into what you are right now. Regret not whatever mistakes you've made, but learn from it. Forget not the past for it is part of your future. Enjoy life and live... believe and you will be.
Sunday, January 21, 2007
another celebration
Cindy's birthday was on the 19th of January and mine is today, so they prepared dinner yesterday for both of us. I had to work till 7pm, so they had to start the party without me. When I got there, I guess I'm just too tired, because I fell asleep on the couch after eating. All this time the kids were playing video games. They did wake me up in time to blow my candles and to have some cheesecake (yummy). After that, it's opening presents time... Yey! I got presents... or to be more precise, I got cards with $$ in them (much better :p)
Went home after that and played DDR (Dance Dance Revolution-keypad style, too tired for the dance pad). I got another present from Axel (coupons that I can use to pamper myself... hmmm). Kyla's present came early (a jacket to keep me warm). Sleep is a welcome event...
Went home after that and played DDR (Dance Dance Revolution-keypad style, too tired for the dance pad). I got another present from Axel (coupons that I can use to pamper myself... hmmm). Kyla's present came early (a jacket to keep me warm). Sleep is a welcome event...
Saturday, January 20, 2007
early birthday celebration
It's Friday, I didn't have to go to work, but I do have a lot of errands to do... laundry, clean car, pick Kyla up from bus station... then we're going to have dinner with the entire family.
We hit a ton of traffic going to my sister's house. Looked like everybody wanted to be on the road that day. When we got there, it was really time to eat... so without any delay we set off for the eat-all-you-can place.
This is a great day. Everyone was enjoying the food, including my sister. We were almost complete...
We hit a ton of traffic going to my sister's house. Looked like everybody wanted to be on the road that day. When we got there, it was really time to eat... so without any delay we set off for the eat-all-you-can place.
This is a great day. Everyone was enjoying the food, including my sister. We were almost complete...
almost caught...
January 1, 2007
Woke up early... we are going snowboarding... at least the kids are. Eson was kind enough to take us to Mountain High so the kids can finally see snow. We were supposed to go to the Rose Parade, but guess what snow won over flowers. Nanay went with us, I guess to watch us make fools of ourselves, he he.
We did not hit any traffic going there... not to many people at that time (which was lucky). We lined up to get our ticket, equipment and waited a few minutes for the snowboarding lesson to start. Kyla told me she fell hard on her butt, and Axel I guess would have enjoyed it more if he didn't have to walk around with the snowboard on his feet (I think it's a liitle too heavy on his knees). They did say that it was a great experience, but not one they would be likely to try again anytime soon...
All my passengers were poofed even before I started the car to head home... well, so much for snowboarding.
January 2, 2007
Had to work today, but went home early because it's Kyla's first day at school. As of this writing, she's already had 2 exams for her Accounting class, both of which she got 97/100.
January 15, 2007
It's a holiday! And we are going back to the snow... mind you not to snowboard but to go tubing. This has got to be one of the coldest days ever! We are all bundled up but the cold still get to you. We got there early as usual, so we went up to the cafe to eat something first. The resort doesn't open till 9am.
An off snow tubing we go!!!! (pics later). Not only was it cold, the wind is blowing really hard. I think they said the temperature goes well below zero when the wind blows... brrr.... frozen me...
After an hour and a half we took a break more from the cold than from being tired. Ordered chicken noodle soup and coffee to warm us up. I don't know what it is about kids, but they still managed to eat dippin dots in that freezing weather. When we went out of the cafe again, there was a long line waiting to slide down the hill. The kids decided that it's not worth it to wait in line for 15 minutes before actually being able to slide down. So off we went to the side of the resort (National Forest side). We tried to make a snowman, but only managed to make the head... too cold... Then we walked some more and found a sled somebody left behind. I though I was going to have a heart attack as Kyla and Axel went sliding down the hill... I am getting to old for this kind of thing. The kids were having fun so we stayed longer... more brrr....
After that we took off and ate at a small restaurant in the village, then it's homeward bound for us. As before, the kids conked out on me... I had to lie down when we got to my sister's house... I was just too tired. It was a great day... with me getting frozen and all :)
Woke up early... we are going snowboarding... at least the kids are. Eson was kind enough to take us to Mountain High so the kids can finally see snow. We were supposed to go to the Rose Parade, but guess what snow won over flowers. Nanay went with us, I guess to watch us make fools of ourselves, he he.
We did not hit any traffic going there... not to many people at that time (which was lucky). We lined up to get our ticket, equipment and waited a few minutes for the snowboarding lesson to start. Kyla told me she fell hard on her butt, and Axel I guess would have enjoyed it more if he didn't have to walk around with the snowboard on his feet (I think it's a liitle too heavy on his knees). They did say that it was a great experience, but not one they would be likely to try again anytime soon...
All my passengers were poofed even before I started the car to head home... well, so much for snowboarding.
January 2, 2007
Had to work today, but went home early because it's Kyla's first day at school. As of this writing, she's already had 2 exams for her Accounting class, both of which she got 97/100.
January 15, 2007
It's a holiday! And we are going back to the snow... mind you not to snowboard but to go tubing. This has got to be one of the coldest days ever! We are all bundled up but the cold still get to you. We got there early as usual, so we went up to the cafe to eat something first. The resort doesn't open till 9am.
An off snow tubing we go!!!! (pics later). Not only was it cold, the wind is blowing really hard. I think they said the temperature goes well below zero when the wind blows... brrr.... frozen me...
After an hour and a half we took a break more from the cold than from being tired. Ordered chicken noodle soup and coffee to warm us up. I don't know what it is about kids, but they still managed to eat dippin dots in that freezing weather. When we went out of the cafe again, there was a long line waiting to slide down the hill. The kids decided that it's not worth it to wait in line for 15 minutes before actually being able to slide down. So off we went to the side of the resort (National Forest side). We tried to make a snowman, but only managed to make the head... too cold... Then we walked some more and found a sled somebody left behind. I though I was going to have a heart attack as Kyla and Axel went sliding down the hill... I am getting to old for this kind of thing. The kids were having fun so we stayed longer... more brrr....
After that we took off and ate at a small restaurant in the village, then it's homeward bound for us. As before, the kids conked out on me... I had to lie down when we got to my sister's house... I was just too tired. It was a great day... with me getting frozen and all :)
catching up some more...
December 25, 2006
Woke up late, which is good considering I did most of the cooking the day before. Had to get ready right away, though. We've been invited to lunch at Ate Ning's house. Brought Nanay along so she can meet other people. At Ate Ning's, ate lunch then had a massage... that felt good. Didn't stay too long because we still have to get home, wait for Mario then off we go to his relative's house for Christmas dinner.
I got my 3rd personalized xmas card from father and son (will post pix later). Dinner as always was great (especially since I only have to eat, he he). After dinner, there were games to be played. Axel got $9.00, Kyla got $2.00, Nanay got $6.00 and I got $1.00 (not fair!). They sang Christmas carols... read and acted out a book, and of course the kids got more Christmas presents from everyone. In all, it was a great day... if a little too tiring. Much too soon, it was time to go home.
December 26, 2006
Too tired to get up...
December 31, 2006
Did not cook this time... or so I thought. Again, off we went to Ate Beth's house for the New Year celebration. When we got there, Nanay asked what food I brought over... I said, "Huh? Did you tell me to cook something?" So, here we go again... more cooking... hay!
When my sister got home, she asked me to get all the groceries out of the car, gave me instructions and told me to cook the food for Medya Noche... Errr? i guess am th ecook again.
Mario was able to join us this time for an early dinner (still can't stay up till midnight since he has to work again the next day). He was having fun picking on all the food that was being brought to the table. Watched the New York countdown for New Year since they're ahead by 3 hours.
When midnight came, Kyla did her jumpingjack thingy (hoping to gain some inches)... New Year, LA style is a lot tamer than celebrating it in the Philippines. No fireworks allowed so all we did was watch on TV and then eat. We did go to bed immediately after that because we're going snowboarding in the morning.
Woke up late, which is good considering I did most of the cooking the day before. Had to get ready right away, though. We've been invited to lunch at Ate Ning's house. Brought Nanay along so she can meet other people. At Ate Ning's, ate lunch then had a massage... that felt good. Didn't stay too long because we still have to get home, wait for Mario then off we go to his relative's house for Christmas dinner.
I got my 3rd personalized xmas card from father and son (will post pix later). Dinner as always was great (especially since I only have to eat, he he). After dinner, there were games to be played. Axel got $9.00, Kyla got $2.00, Nanay got $6.00 and I got $1.00 (not fair!). They sang Christmas carols... read and acted out a book, and of course the kids got more Christmas presents from everyone. In all, it was a great day... if a little too tiring. Much too soon, it was time to go home.
December 26, 2006
Too tired to get up...
December 31, 2006
Did not cook this time... or so I thought. Again, off we went to Ate Beth's house for the New Year celebration. When we got there, Nanay asked what food I brought over... I said, "Huh? Did you tell me to cook something?" So, here we go again... more cooking... hay!
When my sister got home, she asked me to get all the groceries out of the car, gave me instructions and told me to cook the food for Medya Noche... Errr? i guess am th ecook again.
Mario was able to join us this time for an early dinner (still can't stay up till midnight since he has to work again the next day). He was having fun picking on all the food that was being brought to the table. Watched the New York countdown for New Year since they're ahead by 3 hours.
When midnight came, Kyla did her jumpingjack thingy (hoping to gain some inches)... New Year, LA style is a lot tamer than celebrating it in the Philippines. No fireworks allowed so all we did was watch on TV and then eat. We did go to bed immediately after that because we're going snowboarding in the morning.
over the holidays...
Hello to my very neglected blog. I guess it's time to write some updates...
December 18, 2006
Last day for my midnight shift at Southwestern. Whopee! I get two weeks off with pay. Life is good :) I still have to work at Reiss-Davis though, but that's okay.
December 21, 2006
Went to pierce College to see if Kyla can go to school there. I really wanted her to start school. Thank God the people there were nice. It took us less than an hour for her to get admitted. She's still interested in Accounting so that's what we're looking at right now. Registration appointment was January 2, after 9am.
December 22, 2006
Picked Axel us from my sister's house. Nanay went with us because she wanted to go to the mall near our apartment. She also needed to do some shopping for her Christmas presents. Good thing there wasn't too much traffic so we got there still with plenty of time to go shopping. Nanay said I'm too old to be getting presents so only the kids got one from her, wah!!! :(
December 24, 2006
Went to Raplh's to do some shopping for food. Had to do some cooking because my Mom requested some stuff which she said only I can cook, hmmm... doesn't that sound like sucking up? Just my luck... We're still without ham at this timebecause we don't know where to buy it... Good thing Kyla was working that day and she met a customer who knows exactly where that honeybaked ham can be bought. So, with the food safely cooking in the oven, Axel and I went to find this ham and wonder of wonders, there wasn't any line! We got in and out of that store in less than 10 minutes. Yehey! Now my Mom can't complain that Christmas is not complete without ham on the table.
After all the cooking, picked Kyla up so we can go to my sister's house. Mario couldn't come because he's got work early the next day.
When I got to my sister's house, there's still much cooking to be done, no miracle who got elected to finish up everything. My sister had to rest and my Mom said she's got a headache... Hay! So I ended up cooking till midnight... yes, midnight. The fried chicken was still frying as the clock struck twelve.
Everybody had a great time eating all the food on the table. It was like Christmas in the Philippines... all would have really been great if not for someone that's missing from all of us. I think we all felt that loss more at that time. Usually, it would have been my Dad finishing up anything that needed cooking. At exactly 12mn, he would be sitting by the table drinking something while we fill our plates with food. He'd probably crack a joke with the way we're stuffing ourselves.
After the Noche Buena, all trooped to my sister's front room. Everybody gathered around the Christmas tree... all are excited to find out what presents they got. At the back of my mind I can hear my Dad commenting on each of the presents that the kids got. From "baka puro laro na naman ang aatupagin mo dyan", "parang para sa kin yata yan", to "naku, may iwawala na naman si Kyla".
This is the first Christmas that my Dad is not with us. Usually, my sister and I would be frantically dialling the phone hoping to get a connection on such a busy holiday. I really wished things could have been different. He should have been here with us, celebrating that finally the whole family is together on Christmas. It was through his perseverance that we were able to do this, but then he had to go off on his own adventure. Somewhere where we cannot follow, at least not yet...
When all the gifts were opened, we gathered around and decided that we wanted to see the video of Dad's funeral... kind of a sad thing to do, but then, we wanted him to be part of our Christmas. Merry Christmas Tatay. After that we drifted off to get some sleep. Still a full day tomorrow...
December 18, 2006
Last day for my midnight shift at Southwestern. Whopee! I get two weeks off with pay. Life is good :) I still have to work at Reiss-Davis though, but that's okay.
December 21, 2006
Went to pierce College to see if Kyla can go to school there. I really wanted her to start school. Thank God the people there were nice. It took us less than an hour for her to get admitted. She's still interested in Accounting so that's what we're looking at right now. Registration appointment was January 2, after 9am.
December 22, 2006
Picked Axel us from my sister's house. Nanay went with us because she wanted to go to the mall near our apartment. She also needed to do some shopping for her Christmas presents. Good thing there wasn't too much traffic so we got there still with plenty of time to go shopping. Nanay said I'm too old to be getting presents so only the kids got one from her, wah!!! :(
December 24, 2006
Went to Raplh's to do some shopping for food. Had to do some cooking because my Mom requested some stuff which she said only I can cook, hmmm... doesn't that sound like sucking up? Just my luck... We're still without ham at this timebecause we don't know where to buy it... Good thing Kyla was working that day and she met a customer who knows exactly where that honeybaked ham can be bought. So, with the food safely cooking in the oven, Axel and I went to find this ham and wonder of wonders, there wasn't any line! We got in and out of that store in less than 10 minutes. Yehey! Now my Mom can't complain that Christmas is not complete without ham on the table.
After all the cooking, picked Kyla up so we can go to my sister's house. Mario couldn't come because he's got work early the next day.
When I got to my sister's house, there's still much cooking to be done, no miracle who got elected to finish up everything. My sister had to rest and my Mom said she's got a headache... Hay! So I ended up cooking till midnight... yes, midnight. The fried chicken was still frying as the clock struck twelve.
Everybody had a great time eating all the food on the table. It was like Christmas in the Philippines... all would have really been great if not for someone that's missing from all of us. I think we all felt that loss more at that time. Usually, it would have been my Dad finishing up anything that needed cooking. At exactly 12mn, he would be sitting by the table drinking something while we fill our plates with food. He'd probably crack a joke with the way we're stuffing ourselves.
After the Noche Buena, all trooped to my sister's front room. Everybody gathered around the Christmas tree... all are excited to find out what presents they got. At the back of my mind I can hear my Dad commenting on each of the presents that the kids got. From "baka puro laro na naman ang aatupagin mo dyan", "parang para sa kin yata yan", to "naku, may iwawala na naman si Kyla".
This is the first Christmas that my Dad is not with us. Usually, my sister and I would be frantically dialling the phone hoping to get a connection on such a busy holiday. I really wished things could have been different. He should have been here with us, celebrating that finally the whole family is together on Christmas. It was through his perseverance that we were able to do this, but then he had to go off on his own adventure. Somewhere where we cannot follow, at least not yet...
When all the gifts were opened, we gathered around and decided that we wanted to see the video of Dad's funeral... kind of a sad thing to do, but then, we wanted him to be part of our Christmas. Merry Christmas Tatay. After that we drifted off to get some sleep. Still a full day tomorrow...
Saturday, December 09, 2006
gurfinkel xmas party 06
two of my good friends
after the food is gone...
I got a... facial thingy... and Kyla's got a big grin on her face.
Kyla and Willie (are we a fan now?)
Monday, December 04, 2006
Saturday, December 02, 2006
snowy bubble...
Christmas at The Grove
It comes complete with "snow".
Went to The Grove in Los Angeles to witness their so called snow. Obviously, since we're in LA, snow comes in all shapes and sizes... and kind (?) It was a bubbly snow event, made more interesting by the water fountain dance and the ride on the tram. What evening can pass without a stop to... where else? food!!! After that, it got too cold even with hot choco and coffee so we decided to head on home. Next stop... the mountains for some real snow :)
Monday, November 27, 2006
birth month
| Your Birth Month is January |
 You are a natural leader who is able to stand up when no one else can. Strong and powerful, you tend to overshadow those around you. Your soul reflects: deep love, fascination with life, and a distinctive persona Your gemstone: Garnet Your flower: Snowdrop Your colors: Black, dark red, and dark blue |
Thursday, November 09, 2006
moving on, going back...
It's been a month... sure doesn't feel like it. We've been going through the motions of day-to-day living... work, eat, go out, etc. Most of the time we're okay (at least on the surface), but last night wasn't one of the good days.
I took everybody to a birthday party. They have ballroom dancing so I thought it's a good break for all of us. It started out okay for everyone... food was good, everyone was having a great time dancing... we were having a great time looking at everyone dancing, some good, some making fools of themselves... in all it was your typical birthday party. But then, in the middle of it all, my Mom started crying. Pain of losing my Dad, her husband of almost 50 years is plainly written all over her face. His birthday and their 50th anniversary would have been this coming Tuesday, November 14.
We all tried to take her mind off my Dad, and I know she tried to appear okay for our sakes... but some pain you just can't take away.
We miss you...
I took everybody to a birthday party. They have ballroom dancing so I thought it's a good break for all of us. It started out okay for everyone... food was good, everyone was having a great time dancing... we were having a great time looking at everyone dancing, some good, some making fools of themselves... in all it was your typical birthday party. But then, in the middle of it all, my Mom started crying. Pain of losing my Dad, her husband of almost 50 years is plainly written all over her face. His birthday and their 50th anniversary would have been this coming Tuesday, November 14.
We all tried to take her mind off my Dad, and I know she tried to appear okay for our sakes... but some pain you just can't take away.
We miss you...