Braving Motherhood's Challenges

March 30, 2014.   It was one of the longest nights of my life... A very scary experience that will always be etched in my memory.

         I caught a terrible strain of influenza last week which left me  immobile  for more than 3 days... My eyes hurt, just as my whole body screamed from terrible joint pains.... I don't get sick often but when I do, it feels debilitating.. I had no choice but to take a leave from work but I tried my best to stay away from my little girl as I didn't want her to catch anything.

           Sad to say, she caught the flu bug as well. Come Saturday night, she started becoming feverish. She was still her usual self though, playful, vigorous, but I opted to stay up all night to monitor her temperature. I gave her sponge-baths every time her temperature would rise and thankfully enough, the fever was controlled. Little did I know the "eye of our storm" was just about to hit us.

           Sunday morning, my little girl started  regurgitating. Then her temperature started going up. As you all know, my kid is the ever-energetic, non-stop kind, so to see her slump so weakly on the couch with her droopy eyes & pitiful state was enough for me to decide to pack for the hospital. Before noon, we were already in the emergency room at the nearest hospital.

            It was a Sunday so most doctors were off. Ching's (Cavite-based) pediatrician was luckily doing his rounds so he attended to Ching at the Emergency Room... They put an IV on her to avoid the possibility of dehydration and we decided to have her confined for close monitoring.

            It was only Mommy who was assisting me the whole time since the nanny was on a day-off.. As evening approached, I sent my mom home so she could get enough rest. I took charge of watching over my baby alone, thinking I was in the hospital and nurses were aplenty to attend to me if something arises. I'm not sure if it was a gutsy wise move on my part. though at the back of my mind, I would have still opted to spare my mother from the stress I faced that night, but the idea of being able to rely on hospital staff is a definite  no-no I learned the hard way. Or it can also be that it depends on the hospital where you're at..

           Every 4 hours, a nurse would come to our room and monitor my child's temperature. What's weird though was that despite the paracetamol being injected in Ching's IV, my child's temperature wouldn't drop..  She kept on throwing up, her body still limp and weak..  At first, it was around 38.8, then it would go up to 39.5, sometimes even higher... I was advised to give my daughter frequent sponge-baths to help minimize the heat. I willingly obliged, but I was beginning to worry why things didn't seem to get better. The staff missed to explain to me the results of my daughter's CBC and urinalysis which I later learned yielded normal results. I had a Braun ear thermometer with me so I closely monitored my child's temperature on my own, knowing fully well that it was far more accurate than the local digital thermometer the staff used.  I kept a mental note of the changes in her temperature. I said to myself, I ain't getting any sleep that night either. I didn't even feel hungry nor thirsty. All I could feel was stress creeping up my body.

    
    An hour after midnight, my kid's temperature rose to 40 degrees. She was whimpering and mumbling incoherent things already. I was obviously in panic, crying yet continuously giving my child a sponge-bath to lessen her body heat. The nurse who took charge of putting paracetamol on my kid's IV came in a few minutes late after I confirmed Ching's temperature.. I was so  upset, frustrated and helpless, I decided to demand seeing a doctor right away. I was clueless on why my child wasn't getting better. I obviously needed help from the staff, they saw me struggling on Ching's bed, drenched in tears but they chose to do only what they were instructed. I am just so thankful that Ching didn't have a convulsion, given the sudden rise in temperature. Hearing stories of kids who experienced convulsions scared me even more.

         A few minutes later, this snotty  E.R. doctor who was the very same one at the admitting area came to our room. To be more exact, she and another nurse assistant peeked at our door and talked to me while I  wiped my daughter with the washcloth. The nurse supposedly told her I was thinking of transferring to another hospital given that I was already very upset.   I then asked her what happened to the urinalysis and CBC  tests done and why my child wasn't getting better despite the round-a-clock dose of paracetamol being administered to my child. It was a sound question that deserved some ample answers. I was really pondering on transferring my kid to another hospital the next day. This probably prodded the doctor to unwittingly stammer, "Ano po bang gusto nyong mangyari ngayon, Misis?"  Her audacity was so ill-timed. She had spunk, I give her that, but she directed that ill-mannered spunk to the wrong person.

          What the hell?? For a person who has attained such a high level of education, this was truly unacceptable. She wasn't just snotty, she was inconsiderate and obviously lacking compassion.  For all I know, she wasn't thinking right. To think she just stared at me while I fumbled on the weary child's body was unspeakable beyond terms. She could have thought of instructing her worthless assistant to help me with Ching as they saw me crying helplessly while I wiped my daughter's body with a sponge-cloth.. In the midst of all that trouble, I managed to control my temper, choosing not to stoop down to her level. I could have stuffed  her with words that  could have choked her. But I decided to just throw her a disgusting look and answered back in a firm low voice, "Gusto ko lang gumaling ang anak ko. Walang normal sa 40 degrees. Pasalamat ko hindi tumitirik ang mata ng anak ko. Ne hindi ko alam bakit sya nagkakaganito. Hindi po normal ang 40 degrees. Hindi ba? "   I think what I said hit her hard. I knew it knocked her down with shame. She then excused herself and promised to relay the message to the pediatrician. After that, they left me on my own once again. As I stared at the door closing in on me, I wept in silence as I continued to tend to my little girl by myself.

         I was crying  as  I hugged my child and promised she'd be okay, I whispered  to her  that Mommy will do everything to make her well again... That she'd be okay soon..  I continued to wipe Ching's limp body with the towel and I prayed even louder. Somehow, talking to God made me feel better. In my heart, I knew He was the only one with me. Time seemed so slow.. I would glimpse on the window every so often, wishing morning would come soon.

         As the first rays of sun started creeping in, I finally  began to relax... Ching's temperature slowly started to go down. I felt exhausted & famished from the night before. I didn't even realize I forgot to pee for nearly 24 hours straight. I didn't have a proper lunch nor dinner, not even water. That was how stressed I was.

       Maybe God was heeding my prayers as help started to pour in, in the morning... My good friend Ate Adette Arbolante came to the hospital, complete with food & water for Ching and I. She knew from the night before that my daughter got admitted, she even planned to drop by that very same night.  I have never been so touched with the gesture as this person came to my rescue just when I felt I had no strength left in me. She even prayed over my little girl's picture on the computer... I couldn't begin to describe how relieved I was having her around. She is after all a mother like me, with three kids of her own, and has experienced a vast share of  motherly woes, maybe even more. Who else could relate to you than that who has been in  similar situations? Her encouraging words were enough to put back the fight in me. She offered help than any person could possibly offer... She was my angel, an angel in more ways than one.

       My mom, Jates & the nanny "Mama Ubi"  came just an hour after, bringing with them more food and everything else I needed. At last, I got the assistance I wished for, and managed to have a decent meal in 24 hours. (I do not know what I'd do without my family).. My mom was just as worried with me as she was with Ching, she couldn't believe what transpired the night before. She was even regretting staying at home when she could have helped me with the kid but as I said, given another chance, I would still spare her from it.

        Friends slowly started coming in.. My sister-in-law, Ate Tintin dropped by with a bag full of goodies for us, my mother-in-law Nanay Lut who would drop by from time to time, my best  friend Yhen & her niece who despite the terrible heat headed down to the hospital, my "brother-from-another-mother" Marvin who has always been Ching's favorite "uncle", and of course, my cousins, Dr. Bong & Ate Evelyn, together with their kids, Shonleini & Kuya Lee Marv who came all the way from Tagaytay just to check on Chingching. Not to mention the outpour of messages and calls from friends who were all worried for us. I didn't know such concern could be of great help. At least it was, for me...

         Ching's doctor came and explained to me the possible strain of influenza that had caused Ching's terrible fever. It was a viral thing that no antibiotics could heal. Judging from how he spoke, he understood my sentiments and later on admitted that the staff had been lax in tending to the patient,. Although I thought it best to put that aside as my daughter was finally recuperating. I'd rather not dwell on the negative. What happened to us back here was a plain eye-opener to some of the sad realities of life, and the good ones as well.  It taught me to be stronger, and to rely on nobody else but myself, and to know how important it is to always maintain a sound mind in the middle of a dilemma. I learned that in a lot of ways, God indeed answers our prayers and sends us help through other people. That He never leaves us alone... It's only Him you could call on when you're at your lowest...

         I know that motherhood has a lot more for me in the future, despite me wishing that we never have to go through that again. Hopefully, nothing as bad would happen... not to me, not to my family, nor anyone I know.
           I'm just thankful my child is finally alright.. Had it been worse than that, I don't know what else I could have done..
          Being a mother has been pushing me to have a stronger heart...
          I'm guessing mine's on it's way to  becoming that,  not charmed as always, but learning, one day at a time. ..

My Life's Crossroads

Just like anybody else, I too dreamed of making it big. I had choices back then, and I admit, I could have done so much had I pursued a career far from where I am today. I don't mean to sound so ungrateful. A lot of people are now faced with unemployment, and here I am  ranting about my job, sounding like a loser.

I've been in the judiciary for what seems to be a decade already, with a job designation that sadly 'demoted' the level of education I attained. For a person who has more than a Master's Degree in her portfolio, most people would agree I should have put that to good use rather than stick to an old boring desk job that doesn't earn as much.

I didn't plan on taking this job in the first place. But being the obedient daughter that I am, I heeded my parents' wish to work somewhere near considering I had a heart condition that made them worry all the time. I still remember how defiant I felt inside, but somehow, my parents won over.

To be in a job that you hate is like going to work with your head elsewhere. I went through that phase for a period of time.. I also took other jobs on the side just so I wouldn't get bored. I tried teaching at a nearby college for a few years and started a small events-coordination business with a good friend.. Everything started to fall into place after I got married and had a kid. Slowly, I learned to appreciate this job I hated. If I happened to have a list of Pro's and Cons, the cons would surely lead by half, but then, I couldn't let go of this job just yet. I admit it has helped augment the family's everyday expenses even just a bit, and no matter how relatively meager my stipend is, a small income is still way better than having none. But what I consider a big advantage was that I get to go home once in a while to oversee the home,  my child and my mom who has become kinda  sickly because of old age. I am able to care for my family and  their needs while I earned a living. Frankly, I think that  is fairly enough for me to stop complaining.

But in the past couple of weeks, I've been punishing myself by thinking, what if at this age, I decide to brave the world one more time and leave this day-job to find another one that hopefully would give me a more hefty pay. A job that would require me to work in Manila, which I must acknowledge would somehow take away the time I have for my little girl and mom in exchange for ~ ~ ~ yes, a bigger pay... (^_^)    I then talked to my husband about these  things occupying my mind. And just as I am thankful that he is not the kind who would prevent me from doing what would make me happy, he decided to show me my perspectives and helped me weigh what mattered most to me. It was his exact words that he would not want to see me regret whatever decision I may make, but nonetheless, he was there to support me any other way.

Last night, after I came home from an ocular and a client meet-up, I felt my exhaustion reaching its brink. I wasn't just physically tired, I was emotionally exhausted as well.. I arrived home late  just as my daughter  finished her dinner. My mom who seemed very tired as well, was just finishing up..  My little girl was screaming with joy when she heard me by the door. She wouldn't let go of me until I put her to bed, with her arms wrapped around tightly at my hand. My mom told me how my daughter patiently waited at the window the whole day, wishing it would be me inside the tricycle that would pass by... As soon as I arrived, I took over the chores and told my mom to take her rest as I know she was already tired and wasn't feeling very well.

I couldn't quite explain how sad I felt that very instant. For a short period of time that I had been away from home, I felt like there was so much that I missed, there are hardly any words... I realized, there are things in my life that I need to sacrifice if I decide to pursue a career elsewhere. This was what Leih had been telling me the whole time.

I am all my family's got. I couldn't very well take care of them if my priorities shifted. It  just wouldn't  be enough.

I started asking myself, was I really ready to give up the time and liberty to be with my family in exchange of a career  I think I want?  My heart need not explain what my mind could not understand. I knew I couldn't have it all, and I  must learn to be more appreciative of the few luxuries my present job has to offer,(time for one), more so, whatever little blessing I have in my life right now.... I had to weigh what mattered most to me. Weird as it may sound, money wasn't a major concern when the talk of family came at hand. I knew what I wanted to prioritize, and I will not feel sorry for choosing to let go of the possibility of a career that I could have had...  Not at the expense of seeing over my child and my old folks at any time I wish. My family is the most priceless part of my life that I could not pass up for anything less...

I have a husband who loves me and accepts me for the strong and weak person that I am. I have a job that  gives me certain liberties other companies would not. I have a wonderful child who thinks the world of me... A set of loving parents who wish only what they think is best for me... and a simple happy home that not everyone is blessed to have.. I may not be as well-off but  thinking about these graces somehow finally gave me peace I've been searching all this time.

Maybe I just need to appreciate life's little joys more, be grateful and be more accepting, that we do not get everything we wish for. God may not give me everything I ask, but He certainly provided me with the most important things I need...

My Healthy Start For 2014

As the temperature started dropping in December, influenza, measles and other airborne viruses are slowly becoming pandemic... Hospitals in the Metro and even in Cavite have been swamped with patients in the past two weeks and even my family had been hit by the influenza bout...

my family at Breakfast At Antonio's...

My little girl caught a flu and so did my mom.  Good for Ching as the flu went away after 3 days. My mom on the other hand was on medication for a week and was slowly starting to get better when we decided to have dinner in Tagaytay a few days after Christmas. It was a good 18 degrees that night. I honestly loved the climate but it was a little too chilly for my folks.  Sad to say, the temperature drop which we didn't expect  made my mom's flu even worse, we had to go back to the doctor for a series of more medications.


Since my mom is already in her late 60's, her immune system has become lower compared to  the way she was a few years ago. To add that she is a very picky eater, I have to watch over her diet to make sure she eats right. Even if that means I need to go somewhere to get what she feels like eating, I would find myself clueless as to what to buy everyday when I go to the market. But then, I still manage.. (thank God)

That is when I thought of preparing fresh juice for her. If she's too picky of an eater, maybe this trick could do wonders for her. I started juicing carrots and cucumbers since 2012 but for only a short time since it was so messy and time consuming. Now, I'm back to that routine, though this time, I'm not after the juice alone. I decided to use the osterizer to make smoothies out of veggies and fruits.

Less waste + more fiber and juice = healthy...

   Here's how I do it... I peel a big carrot, cucumber, apple, celery, orange, big slices of watermelon and cantaloupe, and I would add a few lettuce leaves sometimes, put them in the osterizer and liquify away...I then add a small cup of water, blend it for a few more seconds and it's done...

My mom would finish a bottle, alongside a complete meal I whip up  everyday, and I must say, we have seen a huge improvement in her. A good healthy regimen, enough rest  and a warm relaxing massage was all that my mom needed to combat the influenza away. Even the doctor says so... I couldn't be any prouder...

I can't promise to do this everyday  for the rest of the year but rather, I can only try my very best, if this means a healthier way of  living for my whole family..

I have been pondering for weeks on what to resolve for 2014, I guess I already have one now...

Tara's Paper-Themed 1st Birthday

Firsts are always special. Ask any mother who didn't go cramming over their kid's first-ever birthday party.  Some choose it  simple, some splurge on it, but  one thing's for sure, we parents will celebrate it either way.

I'll let you in on a secret. You may not believe it but Aann and I  started conceptualizing Tara's first birthday  a few months after we confirmed she was conceiving.. Can you say, early??? Hah!  Talk about an excited mom who runs an events planning business with a tough OC partner in crime.  What more could you expect?

Initially, the plan was to give Tara  this "very detailed"  party of which theme I choose not to  disclose (as we are thinking of pushing thru with it on her 5th or  7th birthday).  Aann knew exactly how she wanted the decors to look like, the backdrop, the stage, the give aways,even the chairs and tables for the kids would all be personalized to her taste, and she had the people to do the job for her. That is how amazing a mind of a planner works.

Mommy Aann with Tara

It wasn't that she changed her mind about it, only, a few more important matters had to be financially prioritized and Aann had to rethink of another theme without denting the budget she allotted for the
celebration. After all. it is still just  a one-day affair.  But being in this business for so long, we knew we could still pull off a memorable party even if we deviated from the original theme. And that's when she decided to have a paper-themed birthday party instead, with pastel colors dominating the occasion. After researching for decorations and party ideas, we started scouting for suppliers.

Aann chose to ' DIY' (Do-It-Yourself) the party decors with the help of some crafty friends from work. Paper cups with different colored butterfly cut outs, paper boats, flaglettes & bouquets of pastel-colored pencils served as our centerpieces adorning the beautiful pastel linens of the tables and chairs.  Different paper lanterns & hot air balloons hung from the ceiling.  It was a magnificent explosion of colors, a vibrant happy one that filled the entire Pacific Ace Clubhouse.

We had two white carts built and personalized by Aann's ever-trusted productions handyman. Blue linen was draped over the roof to match the motif.
 
The first cart served as the candy buffet as jars lined up filled with different kinds of sweets for the kids, there were jelly beans, marshmallows, gummy candies, Stick-O's, fruit jellos and so much more..

 The second cart was specially made for the cake, cupcakes & cake pops. Of course, a birthday party wouldn't be complete without a cake.  It is after all one of the most significant things in a birthday party so we had to find the best baker in town. 

the second cart...

Tara's special frills cake, courtesy of The Cake Fairy

Aann was dead-set on a pastel colored frills-cake  so I had my best friend Jerrielyn  Albay a.k.a. The Cake Fairy design it for Tara.  It came out so beautiful, even the  moist sponge cake inside had different colored layers. Aann was still raving about  how utterly divine it was, every slice was deliciously creamy. ( I have a hint I'll be getting my share this afternoon).. Teehee!!!


Violet and pink cake pops  lined up the front side together with chocolate cupcakes filled with candy sprinkles & flowers.. I caught myself  staring at it for minutes after we've arranged everything.

chocolate cupcakes & cake pops...

To add more  color to the dessert table, I made  cream pineapple jellos in pink for the kids which I placed in small shot glasses. We placed it beside  the caramel pop corns on the other table, near the gifts area. Together, they were an instant hit. The first ones to go were the pop corns and the jellos, Leih didn't get to taste it anymore. Good thing I left a small serving at home.

The  program  that followed, led by Richard   had been a lively one, with almost everyone participating in each game. Prizes were as plenty as  the kids who lined up seated on the colored mats in front.

 My little girl had a wonderful time mingling with some of the kids at the party. The children were all in awe as the magic act & ventriloquism started, courtesy of  the famous Ruther from PGT (Pilipinas Got Talent). Everyone was all eyes on the magician as he worked his charm to entertain the crowd. 

Let us not forget how wonderful the food was... A good friend from production referred this amazing chef  from "From the Kitchen of Liz" and  after our short food tasting in October, Aann booked them in a heartbeat.

before picture...

 We  both hoped they'd deliver the same quality we experienced  at the food tasting and they didn't fail us. I was literally salivating over their Hawaiian Pork Loin days after that food tasting and my wait had been well-rewarded. It isn't common to see my plate wiped out clean during parties as I am one of the worst critics you could find,

after picture

but today, I sheepishly admit to leaving the table with a barely-there morsel of left over. I loooooved the food!!!! And from how I heard people rave about it, I'd say Liz did one hell of a job!!! Bravo!! Delicioso!!! ( It was just unfortunate that I didn't get enough coffee jelly to satiate my incredulous craving. Oh well, there is always a next time...)

At the end of the party, after our birthday girl got her turn to blow the candle,  Mommy Aann  bravely gave out a short message to her little girl, a tear-jerker at that. I could feel the lump in her throat as she tried her best to control her tears. It had been a struggle for Mel and Aann having to wait so patiently  to be blessed with an angel of their own, needless to say,  that long wait was  truly  worth it.

Aann had to go through so many challenges before Tara was born, but she graciously welcomed  every sacrifice. To be given the opportunity to become a mother was more than she could ever wish for in her life.   I saw how Aann became a changed woman after having Tara.

Life can get pretty difficult especially for working moms like her but the fact that when you get home,a  familiar smile greets you from your doorstep, patiently waiting for you, with eyes instantly lighting up with happiness for the fact alone that you're finally home, it more than pays for all the hardships a mother goes through everyday.. I  should know, because like Aann, I share the same story, and the same  beautiful  blessing... (sniff... sniff)..

It was an unforgettable first birthday for Tara. Simple, yet very nicely done.. She may not remember any of it happening, but in the coming years when she's old enough to understand, these beautiful  pictures   will  show how  memorable  her 1st special day went by, a reminder  how lucky she is for having the most loving pair of parents one could ever find.

Happy Happy Birthday to you,  our pretty Smurfette.. .We love you Tara...

Saying Goodbye To Milky...

I have always loved dogs.  I can't remember not having a dog since I was little. So far, I've had a few, some of which had already passed away, and some are still with me...

But among all the dogs that I took care of, Milky is by far one of my most favorites. She was an offspring of a Japanese Spitz that I had and eventually gave to my Kuya. It was the 1st of January 2001 when Milky was born. From 10 puppies, it was her and her brother Whitey that caught my eye.. She was comparably smaller than her siblings making her so adorably cute. She was also very gentle in nature but a very fierce guard-dog. Sad to say, she never had any puppies of her own.

back in 2005 after we joined a Swatch contest....

Just looking back at how those 12 years had passed, I can say that Milky had been witness to so many milestones in my life. She was my silent confidante. She has seen me blossom into a woman, has been with me in my most trying times. She has seen me fall in love & was there when I fell down. At times, I would think, people might perceive me to be a weirdo for talking to a dog who doesn't even understand me, but yes, I do that because I have nobody to run to like others who have sisters of their own. When my heart got broken so bad and I couldn't tell my mom yet what was bothering me, it was her I first confided in. I cried like a baby and I remember how she just stared back at me as she slowly licked my hand, seemingly telling me that I would be okay and that I am not alone. That was that one time that I would never ever forget.

She saw me triumph  a lot of times. Hers was the face that would greet me when I get  home, jumping with excitement upon knowing I have arrived. I honestly feel that most of the time, dogs are far more grateful than humans are. They have a way of making you feel like you are their world. Every effort and every act of kindness you give them will never be left unreciprocated.

Milky was present in the most important times of my life. When I graduated from my Masters, when I got married, had a child... She accepted my little girl and loved her as much as she loved me... Every morning, Ching would walk outside and frantically run after her, chasing her while calling her name and she would graciously bow her head while Ching pats her back. I was never scared to let my kid touch her, knowing how kind she was..

I knew that eventually, this time would come but still, it breaks my heart knowing that my bestfriend of 12 years is finally gone... It wasn't the first time Milky got sick. I have saved her countless times in the past, patiently giving her medicines and force-feeding her (I open her mouth and try to give her fine-ground Alpo meat, or I make her drink milk even if it takes me an hour), and so far, she survived.. But these last two weeks had been terrible. I knew she was slipping away slowly from me as no medicine could seem to make her condition better. She could barely walk & eat, I feel like choking every time I left for work, thinking I might not see her alive when I get back..

Last night, I knew it was only a matter of hours and she'd finally say goodbye to us. I was in tears as I took a last picture of her before I went to bed, but I found myself waking up just to check if she's still breathing. It was probably around dawn when she had her last breath.  When I woke up, next thing I knew, she was gone...

I am wondering if a dog's soul is the same with that of a human. I wonder if  she is still with us.. I hope she has gone to a place where she is happy and at peace.

Milky may be just a dog but for me, she is family.. And family she will always be....

The Newest Cake Fairy In Town!!

I've always known how artistic Jeh is. (Full name: Jerrielyn Dela Cruz - Albay, a stay-at-home mom of 3 and a loving wife to Joel). She is after all, my bestfriend.. Our friendship dates back since college and since we became best buddies, we've been inseparable,  that is until we had families of our own and could barely find time to  go out that often, but we never lost touch... Our lives are forever bound as we are practically family already. I am her eldest son's godmother and she is my soul-sister...

Today, after what seemed to be such a long time, I saw my bestfriend again, at my god-daughter Thea's 1st birthday party whose birthday cake she designed... Just to give a rundown on how the party took place, it was a simple yet very very lovely Hello Kitty party, everything was just downright awesome.

Going back to Jeh,  honestly when I learned that she was into baking lately, I had an inkling that she would do well in it. Even when we were in school, she was always the "all-knowing" when it comes to lay-outs and anything art-related.  She was born with that talent. Or should I say, blessed with an innate artistic skill that others could only wish for (that includes me)... sheesh....



And boy was I right... As soon as I got into the party, the first thing that caught my eye was the GORGEOUS Hello Kitty castle cake she did for Thea... Surrounding the cake were moist chocolate & banana cupcakes with edible  Hello Kitty toppers... Being in the events business,  I have seen so many beautiful cakes but still, this one took my breath away... Maybe I am biased knowing it was my bestfriend who did it, or I'm just crazy over pink and lavender or it could be that I am simply a cake addict. My husband even says cupcakes are my kryptonite.  But truly, the effort she gave into this creation was just remarkable. The designs were intricate, clean and very detailed, that's how Jeh really is.. The mixture of colors were perfect. Heck, I would love to have a Hello Kitty cake like this for myself.

can you be any more intricate than that???

I never thought she could be as good as those famous cake suppliers in my list. I couldn't help but sneak in for a cupcake and it tasted just as good as it looks, it was moist and delicious on the inside. Taking a bite at that chocolate cupcake was literally cupcake heaven...



I can never be any prouder than I am now for Jeh.. I think she has finally found her niche, who would ever think she'd be baking cakes and selling them too!!  Looks to me like you have to plan on getting that bigger kitchen and oven you mentioned. Expect more clients to surely come marching in.. We'll see each other again very soon, my dear...

For now, let me finish my last piece of banana cupcake... Oh yes, sugar rush, I love you.... Come to Mama...

Just Because....

And for no reason at all, I get this from "the boyfriend" upon arriving home from our food tasting... I was trying hard to remember what occasion it was intended for, turns out he saw this at the mall and decided to just get  it. Talk about pogi points...

Whooo hooo!!!

What's For Lunch?

Since I had been so busy the whole week, I decided to prepare something special that my family would surely love.. Leih was off from work so I wanted him to have a good home-cooked meal...

After finishing up with Ching's bath and breakfast, I headed to the market to buy my ingredients... I carefully chose the freshest shrimps and crabs for my ginataan, and of course the coconut milk (or gata)... I also picked a few veggies like string beans, squash, "sili" and pechay, and some fresh maya-maya fish to pair with my  menu...  The plan was to make Ginataang Hipon and Alimasag,  and fried Maya-Maya for lunch...

Here is the finished product, fresh from the wok to our table... This was what I served for lunch...  No need to ask my husband how it tasted, his bulging tummy alone is enough affirmation that I nailed this one perfectly... (^_^)


Bon appetit!!!

Pigging Out....

It's very rare for us to chance on a Sunday day-off for Leih.... Jobs that involve table games have a rotating schedule that can be such a pain in the @#s sometimes...

So today, we decided to pig out for a while just so I can have my favorite cake. We drove off to Alabang and headed to Contis at West Gate. I was literally famished when we got there so imagine my thrill when I got hold of the menu...

I wouldn't post everything I ordered for today (as my husband failed to take clear shots of the other items on the table).

First on my list was the Mango Royale Salad... I thought, it was a great way to start our meal by getting something light and healthy. The mango was sweet, it complemented the fresh lettuce and the delicious dressing (along with the other veggies in it)... I  was able to finish the "solo" serving in a few minutes..  Ahhhhh..

crisp and fresh... that's how I like it!!!

My second favorite  was the pasta with marinara sauce and cream cheese- filled meatballs...  I am a self-confessed cheese addict so it is expected that I'd be loving this.. But hey, you can't go wrong with anything stuffed with cream cheese, right?.... Every bite was gooey, creamy and delicious... You gotta try this!!!! Arrrggggh!!!!!!!!

cheese, cheese and more cheese!!!!!!!!!!

And of course, who in their right minds would forget about the cakes??? This was my most favorite part!!! The Dulce cheesecake!!! Oh, I wouldn't mind traveling an hour and be stuck in traffic for 2 more hours if it was this I'd be going for... This is heaven on a plate, baked by the gods specially for me (har har har).from the word itself Dulce, oh man,  I am at a loss for words...

silky and creamy, DELICIOUSLY SINFUL...

 Last but not the least is their very own version of fresh strawberry yoghurt shake, you gotta have something refreshing in the end.. So here .... See the small berry seeds? You can't get any fresher than this..

How I wish every Sunday was Leih's Day-Off.. Then probably, I wouldn't need to salivate like this and wait until the next Sunday off is next...

I love pigging out... (no pun intended) (^_^)

Mother's Day = Peach Walnut Torte

Since it was Mother's Day, I had an excuse to indulge myself with a  big serving of cake... The pastry chef who concocted this and the famous Mango Bravo is a genius in his own right.

  This is the mouthwatering Peach Walnut Torte, with an ice cream filling on the inside, crunchy walnuts, sweet yet tart tasting peaches, and a creamy heap of icing on top...

what I got my mom for Mother's Day!

I have (again) gone to cake heaven today... Happy Mother's Day Mommies!!! (esp. to my mom).. Luv u!

My Own Version of the Funny Bread...

It was raining the whole day so I decided to make something cheesy for merienda... A friend of mine used to do this so I decided to give it a try...

This is my own version of  the so called "funny bread".... Yummy quickmelt cheese, bacon and hotdog slices wrapped in a crunchy breadcrumb encrusted roll.. I dipped this in milk before frying it over low flame.

 Just looking at this makes me hungry again... Dang....

The OC & The Inflatable

We are scheduled to go swimming tomorrow with my cousins so I prepared Ching's things early on, wanting her to have an unforgettably enjoyable first time in the water...

Turns out I was more than excited than the little girl. I got her a new Hello Kitty swimsuit and will be bringing 2 more tomorrow, some mini inflatables for her arms, and of course, I got her this umbrella type inflatable  two weeks ago... Isn't this the cutest?

Just looking at it gives me the shivers... It will be her first time in the pool tomorrow.. I don't think I'll be getting any sleep tonight... (ano beh).....

Cheesy Dynamites...

Being a cheese lover, I am forever busting my brains out on what else to cook, with cheese in it...

So for our merienda, I decided to make some Cheesy Dynamites... I cleaned the insides of my green peppers, stuffed it with quickmelt cheese, rolled it in lumpia wrappers, and fried it in olive oil at a low flame to a golden crisp until it turned out this way..


I had to make another batch for the husband after my  mom and I finished the whole plate in one sitting.. That's how good it is! Crunchy, with gooey cheese inside and a wonderful spicy kick from the pepper.. Perfect combination!!!

Saying Goodbye....

my Kuya Borge...

April is a month of mixed emotions for me... So many things are taking place too fast and though I must say, it had been a blessed month so far, I couldn't hide the sadness I feel as two of my loved ones are leaving for abroad, a week apart from each other... First, my dad will be leaving back for Jeddah tomorrow, and a week after, my Kuya Borge will be flying to Chicago for good...

        Kuya Borge and I grew up together. Him, me, Injey and Jates who happens to be the youngest. The three of us (Injey included) were born a few months apart from each other. We literally played & slept in one crib, shared meals and other things, had the usual petty fights, we pretty much have one memory of us growing up...

       They are the closest  I have to real siblings. But when  Injey left for Germany after graduation, I was heartbroken. I could still remember the day I cried a bucket when she left. It felt like losing a loved one.. Little did I realize that this familiar feeling would be back very soon.


      Kuya and I have always been there for each other... We may live in different houses now but still, he is a very big part of my life, him and Jates We've gone thru graduations, birthdays, weddings, heartbreaks, practically all the ups and downs (even silly instances like trips to the doctor for rabies shot which he loves making fun about) name it, I have a long list on standby...

      Whenever I am sad or troubled, it's him I run to for help. With Kuya Borge,  I  feel safe because I know I have someone to back me up. That whatever happens, he'd be there for me and he will love me just like he does his sisters.. And if you must know, I love my Kuya more than words could  measure, (maybe soooo much wouldn't suffice). Leih would tell me how amazed he is at how I've grown to love my cousins, and he feels sorry for me for not having a brother of my own.
 

Jates, me, Ching & Kuya...

          In a few days, he'll be off to start a new life in Chicago for God-knows-how long, and that's what chokes me to tears. I've been crying a river to Leih  since I learned about the possibility of my Kuya Borge leaving for work and now, the inevitable is slowly taking  place. It won' take long before Jates follows in next and just thinking about it drives me into deep depression.

      But as much as I would love him to stay with us here,  I am more than happy that he's finally going to start a whole new chapter in his life, I'm not sure if I told him how proud I was of him when he passed the PT State Board Exam with flying colors and how he got himself hired by a reputable rehab facility in the States. Not everyone could accomplish the things he did... I always knew he was an achiever.

Ching's 1st Christmas with Kuya...

 And despite the "separation-anxiety" I am now experiencing,I am thankful  for all the things he has now, even if it means I might not be able to see him for years... I just wish it won't take him long to go home back again..

      Ching will miss him more than I will... For now, all I can do is pray and wish him luck that wherever the wind takes him, he'll have a great life ahead of him...(and hopefully, he'll give us nieces/nephews in the future)

    We love you  so much, Kuya Borge... we'll miss you for sure..

Ching's First Car

         Back when I was young, toys like these didn't exist. Maybe because life then was simpler, kids were satisfied with whatever toys they are provided with, to add, we grew up playing outdoors... But if I were a child, I would love to have this... Kids nowadays are much more priviledged. It's a usual thing for me to see kids holding tablets playing online games that I hardly have any idea about.

        I'm not saying it's wrong, but I would like my little girl to have a more "traditional" childhood. I want her to experience how to fly kites, play hide-and-seek, "siatok" and "habulan".. I believe it would make a child more grounded...

       Don't get me wrong.. This doesn't mean I won't be buying her nice toys.. Of course,  every parent would love to provide the nicest things to their kids. Leih and I pondered hard on this as we thought of getting Ching a beautiful auto-manual car of her own - - - something she could use in the comforts of our home. Good thing we have a spacious yard, it did fit our plan perfectly.

          Leih and I purchased this beauty after his birthday blowout. I admit I was much more excited to get it for her maybe because I would have wanted one of my own .. And boy did she love it.. I'd say this is pretty classy of a car for a girl's first - a pink Beetle type which comes complete with an MP3 tuner/player and a dock, and of course, a remote which I could operate (and enjoy) when it's on  auto mode.. Every afternoon upon arriving from work, we get to have our mother-daughter playtime with this beautiful car.

By far one of our best purchases ever, though I must say, the  price tag made us want to wail. =)

An April Fool's Birthday Celebration

the free birthday cake from Vikings

      Days before Leihson's birthday, our little girl has been singing the birthday song non-stop, courtesy of my mom. She was such a joy to listen to even if we hardly understand what she's saying. She couldn't quite grasp the lyrics yet but you'll hear  "Daddy" at the end of her song, and add a silly smirk after she finishes it.

        Leih thought it was so sweet of his 2 -year old to actually sing to him and so, he agreed to give Ching a big surprise. We've been eyeing on this thing months ago and now that the store is on sale, we thought of finally getting it .

Ching with my parents on our way to dinner...

    Since it was the lenten season, we didn't plan much on how to spend his birthday, save for a special dinner reservation at Vikings. It wasn't crowded that night and the ambiance was so relaxed. We all had a great dinner, even Ching who loved the grilled fish and orange-peach jelly...As usual, I enjoyed 2 glasses full of frozen choco-shake, some maki, grilled seafood and a few more that I can barely remember...

After dinner, we went straight to the mall to get Ching her surprise... Seemed to me that it was Ching who was celebrating the day and not Leih.. But can you blame the dad for giving in? I know how rewarding it must feel to hear your child sing to you, kiss you and give you the sweetest hugs on your special day...

Ching with the birthday dad...

always ready to give a smile...

that's where she got her looks from... (my dad)

About the surprise, you'd have to read my next post... For now, let me share with you the beautiful pictures we took that night...