Z's Swimming Class Graduation

I am sorry for the lack of posts as it has been a truly rough two weeks. But that's all in the past and I plan on catching up on all the good things that have happened, starting with Z's swimming class graduation from the Marooners Swimming Program last May 29.

He performed really well during the Ball and Bottle Relay. He got a gold and bronze medal, respectively. Isn't that fantastic for a four year old to accomplish?

Dydy and I were so proud of our little boy. Congratulations and we'll do it again next year, probably with an additional basketball clinic.

April and May class graduates

US Online Shopping Made Easy With LBC Shipping Cart --- Straight to Your PH Doorstep!

Are you tired of salivating over the lower prices seen in U.S. websites like Amazon, Carter's, and GAP or wondering how to get authentic US brands such as Bath & Body Works? Are you frustrated with the overpriced imported products here in the country? Can't wait to online shop during Black Friday, Cyber Monday or any kind of big sale holidays?

Like you, I am one of the million parents who can't seem to understand why a pair of Crocs in the Philippines will cost around Php 4,000 - Php 5,000 when on the US site it costs only around $30 - $50 (and it's not even discounted). Of course, being always on a budget, I often scout the web to find ways on how to get things cheaper or at a discount.

Fortunately, I discovered LBC Shipping Cart. And today, I finally got my first Amazon purchase online straight to my doorstep!

A Dark Path

I'm sorry for the lack of posts because I am currently in a so-called "dark path" of my life. I do not know if you can call this as the start of a mid-life crisis or quarter-life crisis --- whatever crisis it is, it is somehow draining the joy out of what I should be feeling right now.

I am very confused. I do not know if what I am doing is towards the right path or if this will be what the Lord has built me to do. I have so many things running in my head, I can't believe I can actually sleep at night.

Trying the Waist Training Challenge

Waist training is definitely one of the latest slimming fads today and with celebrities, like Kim and Khloe Kardashian promoting it, you'd bet people all over the globe will give it a try. And yes, that includes me.

9-Boned Jacquard Waist Training Corset from icahonline.com

I recently purchased a nude, 9-boned Jacquard waist training corset from the online shop, icahonline.com. I was inspired by the feedback on their Instagram account, especially by IG user mhoyperez who became my instant fitspiration.

Should I Go Back to the Office?

After a year of working from home to take care of my health and my son, I have realized several things:

1. Money will be tight as online jobs are not as stable as having a corporate job;
2. I don't have any benefits;
3. It can also be stressful;
4. There are many scammers out there; and
5. Sometimes, it can be literally monotonous because there is less interaction with other people.

Also, as I have a weekend jobs, I keep on missing quality time with my family. Sadly, it's the only way I can earn and increase our savings because I don't want my husband to be the only one working even though I handle the work at home (like cooking, cleaning, laundry, ironing, etc)

Still, it sucks not to have benefits. Like today, I am sick so I had to take a leave of absence for two days which meant no pay for two days as well (ouch).

Home Sweet Home... Soon.

When we visited our lot in Ampid, my husband and I were extremely happy with the progress. There are now concrete roads, NAWASA pipeline, and we can already see where the playground and open areas will be.

With these progress in sight, my husband and I can finally predict that we can build our home in a year or two. And yes, I am very excited about being the queen of my own castle after five years of living with my in-laws. It took awhile but we don't mind as long as we are in no hurry to build the house of our dreams.

The Angry Birds Movie Review

Z, my husband and I were very psyched that "The Angry Birds Movie" is now showing in the Philippines. We have been anticipating the release of this movie ever since we've seen its trailer during "The Good Dinosaur" film viewing. Z was especially excited because loves Red, the "angriest" bird of all.

Z very happy with his Red tumbler

******** SPOILER ALERT ***********

Casa Italia Cafe Review

It was my mother's birthday last May 10th and as I was not able to visit her last Mother's Day because of work, my siblings and I have decided to do a double celebration. It was nothing fancy; we heard mass together at the Diocesan Shrine and Parish of Nuestra Señora de Aranzazu (where I got married) then we took her out to lunch.

Since my mom is a fan of Italian cuisine, we went to the newly opened Casa Italia Café at SM North Edsa. It was homey and rustic little hole-in-the-wall type of restaurant which serves Italian food, coffee and gelato.

Easy Mac & Cheese Recipe for a Very Tiring Day

Whew! I did the laundry today. Yes, after 31 years of existence, it is my first time of completely washing our clothes, jeans included. I am used to washing our lingerie but we hire someone to do our laundry.

However, since my husband and I are tightening our house budget due to the fact that I am only working weekends, we have decided that I should do the laundry. We will give it a month to see if there will be any changes in our budget.

I pay Php 2500 per month for our laundry plus Php 1000 for the monthly detergent. Hopefully, our sacrifice will pay off. We are keeping our fingers crossed.

Anyway, sorry for being off topic. Since I am very tired (I woke up at 5:30AM to start the washing machine. Good thing I was able to sort and soak the whites last night. I finished at around 8:30AM), I was too lazy to cook a heavy lunch for me and Z.

Hence, I came up with the Easy Mac & Cheese recipe.

Disney Junior Birthday Book Registration

The start of May doesn't only mean that Mother's Day is coming (which is this Sunday already, by the way) but it also means I can start Z's registration to the Disney Junior birthday book. He has been appearing on it since 2013 when he turned 2 years old.

We've always been a fan of parties and while I prefer to semi-DIY everything, like what I've done during his first birthday at home, sometimes I can ask for help from my trusted suppliers. Just check out my old blog for the list.

No Disney Junior book yet because age limit is 2-7

Captain America: Civil War Review

Hello, May 1st!

I can't believe it, time sure flies when you're having fun! It's already the first of May and you know what that means? It is time to watch Captain America: Civil War! Woohoo!

Whose side are you on?
Z: "Captain America!"
Me: "Iron Man!"

SM Little Stars

Last April 25, Z and I went to Photoline SM San Mateo to get his photo taken for his school requirement. We weren't aware that it was also the same day of the registration for the SM Little Stars. When the lady at the store saw Z, she exclaimed, "Naku Mommy, sali mo siya sa SM Little Stars. Ang pogi, baka manalo!"

Well, why not right? So at that very moment, Z had his photos taken.

Kapuluan Vista Resort Review

One of the reasons why our Ilocos tour was a success is because of our lovely stay at the quiet and serene Kapuluan Vista Resort. It is located almost at the end of the Blue Lagoon area and if you're too quick to decide on the accommodations, you might miss it completely.

Powerville Fun Rides at SM San Mateo

As promised yesterday, I took Z out as a treat for doing a great job at his assessment. Since he was dying to try the new Powerville Fun Rides at SM San Mateo, I finally obliged and let him play. The playhouse is located at the 3rd Level of the mall, across the Cinemas so you can't miss it.

Myopia: What to do When Your Child is Diagnosed With Nearsightedness

Today was supposed to be a normal, happy day for Z and me. I had everything planned down to the T: routine eye exam for his school requirements, pay bills and probably play in the new Powerville Fun House at SM San Mateo. Unfortunately, I didn't count on my son being diagnosed with myopia in the mix.

ISYC Assessment, Tuition Fee & Payment Terms

Z had his assessment today and Z was definitely very adamant because he's scared to go to school wearing his eyeglasses. I was so heartbroken by his expression but after telling him that no one will mock him and everyone will still find him cute, he finally rode the car.

When we are finally at school, we went directly to the Multipurpose Hall to get our original receipt for his tuition (full payment) and proceeded to get his new uniform. The good thing about ISYC was everything's already included in the tuition fee that we paid.

Herencia Cafe Review

For our first lunch in Ilocos, my family and I decided to eat at the infamous Herencia Cafe, home of the pinakbet pizza. It is located in front of the Paoay Church, right across the PAOAY standee. You will not miss it because of the throng of visitors that frequent the place.

Who Is My President?

I am one of the million Filipinos who clamor for change hence my heart was set on voting for Mayor Rodrigo Duterte for President. Well, that is until I discovered the "Who is My President" poll and now, my heart and my mind are in a heated argument.

Kusina Felicitas at Grandpa's Inn Review

Vigan has a very rich Spanish cultural history that people who visit this beautiful place often get off-guard whenever they see how fantastically well-kept and restored the place is. According to its website vigan.ph, this town was recognized as the religious center of Northern Luzon in the year 1595 because of its wealth, including a thriving political epicenter.

Through the help of the business of Filipino-Chinese inhabitants and agricultural knowledge of the mestizos, Vigan continued to blossom and soon, it was able to support the revolutionary hence thwarting the Spaniards by 1896.

Besides its beautiful history, cuisine is also one of its well-kept secrets. Kusina Felicitas is the signature restaurant of Grandpa's Inn located in the fame Calle Crisologo. According to its website, the dining hall still stands with the original bricks dating way back in the 18th century. This well-known restaurant serves authentic Vigan and Ilocano dishes like the bagnet, pinakbet, and the famous longganisa.

Vigan-Laoag-Pagudpud 2016 (Day Two & Three)

After a quick and hearty breakfast at the Kapuluan Vista Restaurant, where most of us ordered the Vigan longganisa again, we started the day with our DIY Pagudpud tour. We were a bit late so it was extremely hot when we drove to Cape Bojeador Lighthouse, Kapurpurawan Rock Formation, and Bangui Windmills.

In my itinerary, we were supposed to go to Bantay Abot Cave but due to an accident that we have never foreseen, we had to scrap it off our tour. Good thing our resort was in the Blue Lagoon area that's why we were able to swim and see the beautiful place.

Vigan-Laoag-Pagudpud 2016 (Day One)

Finally, my family and I went on a much-needed vacation as we were not able to go last March. For this year, we've decided to go to Northern Luzon and explored the wonderful province of Ilocos. We started at Vigan, the capital of Ilocos Sur then moved to Laoag, the capital of Ilocos Norte, and finally rested at Pagudpud.

I made our own itinerary because we rented our own van hence we can go wherever we want to go at whatever time we please.

#KobesFarewell

I followed Kobe Bryant's career since high school and I am one of the many girls who fantasized about him being her husband. I had his NBA card, his posters, and yes, I even drew little hearts around our photos together.

He was, and will always be, my BEST NBA player of all-time.

Today, I learned from my husband that the NBA regular season has ended and that it will be Kobe's final game as he has already retired. And like a past relationship, so many memories replayed in my mind like a broken down kaleidoscope.

Who was Kobe Bryant for me?

Little Chicks Inspired Bento

Today is Z's last day of swimming classes and it was a bittersweet experience. He finally swam on his own but he was too sad to go because he will miss his new friends.

His coaches were all sad to see him go but we were delighted to know that there will be an official graduation ceremony where all the participants will showcase everything they've learned this summer. It will be by the end of May and I am truly excited for Z.

I mean, yes he's not as excellent as the big kids but he knows how to do three kinds of floating (tuck float, dead man's float, and back float), bobbing, gliding, and literally swimming across the pool.

Coach J Hoop Camp 2016

My husband is a HUGE basketball fan and because of this, he really wants Z to learn and play basketball. Unfortunately, MILO BEST only accepts kids five years and older so Z is still a year short from this requirement. This is also the reason why we enrolled him in swimming lessons instead.

Future baller

Although we were a bit disappointed that Z can't enroll this year, we're truly looking forward to have his basketball training next year as he's a big basketball fan too. In fact, whenever there is a Golden State game, he'd ask his daddy to switch the channel to NBA TV. Good thing I understand and adore basketball too because if I'm a different mommy, I would have been left out of the conversion.

Japanese Inspired Bento Week

This week is Big Boy Z's final week of swimming lessons. While I didn't really expect him to be an excellent swimmer after the ten-day course, I was very surprised to see his progress. It was more than we bargained for and I am truly proud of my little boy.

The Great Cloth Diaper Change 2016

DISCLAIMER: I am a member of the Modern Cloth Nappying Pinays and as a sign of gratitude and support, I have personally decided to post this advertisement on my blog. I am neither part of the admin team of MCNP nor SPIN (South PiNanays). For more information about the event, please contact the admins here. Thank you.

MCNP, in partnership with Breastfeeding Pinays, MommyTalk Philippines, and SPiN, proudly presents "The Great Cloth Diaper Change 2016" happening on Apr. 23 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Dance Vision Arena Events Place.

Argan Oil Uses & Benefits

Yesterday, when I had my foot pampering at Nail-A-Holics SM San Mateo, Rhoda noticed that I have dry skin at my heel. She recommended very subtly that I try argan oil. But what are the argan oil uses and benefits?

I have heard about this so-called "beauty oil" from many forums and Facebook groups but I've never actually tried it personally. I was still hesitant and doubtful as I thought it was synthetic and unnatural.

I can't believe how wrong I was.

Why I Love Being A WAHM

The call of the corporate world is back again and while it is tempting to dip my toes, I can't help but wonder if I will be doing the right thing. I turned my back from my 8-5 job a year ago and while online and freelance writing jobs are hard to come by, my family and I seem to be coping.

If I go back, will I be able to see my son grow up? Will I be able to watch him learn how to glide, bob, and dive? Will I be able to see his face glow whenever he sees my smiling face by the guard after school?

With his new best friend at swimming class

Nail-A-Holics SM San Mateo Review

So today, Big Boy Z and I went to SM San Mateo because I promised him that if he sleeps, we'll go. Unfortunately, he didn't forget that's why the very moment he opened his eyes, he told me "Hi Mommy! Time to go to SM, I slept!"

Remind me not to make promises before he sleeps, okay? Haha.

Thankfully, I had to run some errands for my husband hence our trip to the mall was not in vain. I had to go pick up my father-in-law's glasses from Executive Optical (EO) and as it was delivered late, we got a 10% rebate. We got Php 576 back, now that's customer service.

Anyway, after the trip to the optical, we went straight to the Nail-A-Holics boutique. It was my first time to try this branch and personally, I loved the experience! Kudos to nail technician Rhoda as she was very meticulous in doing my foot spa, pedicure, and even my eyebrow threading.

Padre Pio Maternity Hospital Review

Today was my return check-up to my cardiologist, Dr. Ivan Panganiban. He's my doctor at Marikina Valley Medical Center but thankfully, he also happens to be the Medical Doctor at the newly-built hospital at San Mateo, which is Padre Pio Maternity Hospital.

Contact Details
Address: Gen. Luna Street, Ampid 2, San Mateo, Rizal (in front of SM San Mateo)
Contact Number: (02) 274-9889 / (02) 280-4479

While the hospital is still in its early stage, it seems well-managed and customer service is okay. I'm not sure yet about the facilities as I have only seen the doctors' offices though I like their ultrasound room. It was very clean and the technicians are very friendly.

Sadly, my cardiologist informed me that I need to increase the dosage of my medicines for hypertension. He's pleased with the progress of my blood sugar and he advised me to return after two months. By then, he will check my glycosylated hemoglobin, liver function test, and cholesterol levels.

Cars Inspired Bento

My son had his second swimming lessons today and to show that I am very supportive of his craft, I paid homage to his favorite vehicle for his "baon." Thankfully, I was able to get all my tools from my favorite Bento stores.

I used my VW Beetle mold to make the rice and cut some nori to create the windows and wheels. I have added three Libby's Vienna sausage and spread corn all over the food. I used the bunny egg molder to make the soft-boiled egg look like a bunny then added the details using nori. As a treat, I've added two butter cookies in a working car paper cup.

Sunday Thoughts

It's my second day of training at my new online job and while it is extremely difficult to adjust as I am often out with my family every weekend, we were able to make do with our time. Like today, instead of hearing mass at six in the evening, we heard mass at 8:30 in the morning. We like to hear mass in the evenings because it is quieter, making the celebration solemn.

To wake my Big Boy Z, I prepared a simple yet cute breakfast.

It's a cheese sandwich in the shape of a tractor truck with cheese and grapes. My little boy even told me, "Mommy, can I eat this? It's too beautiful!" Ah, to have my masterpiece loved and praised by my son, that's enough for me.

Lightning McQueen Inspired Bento

Big Boy Z is an avid fan of cars ever since he was still in my tummy (check out this page for the story). In fact, he has a huge collection of vehicles which includes Disney Cars characters, Hot Wheels, CAT, wooden cars, and many more.

But, my son really loves Lightning McQueen. This Disney character was his inspiration in everything hence he wants to become a race car driver when he grows up. McQueen is definitely part of the family.

Summer Classes 2016 (UPDATED)

Happy April's Fool Day!

Did you encounter any pranks today? Well, thank goodness I didn't. Last year, I was totally bummed out by the fake pregnancy announcements and reveals on Facebook, probably because it has always been a sensitive topic for me.

Thankfully, BabyCenter was tactful enough to post an article about it so it won't happen again this year.

I guess it was a wake up call for people because my newsfeed was spared of these jokes. I hope nobody gets me wrong because I'm cool about jokes and pranks but I'm just a tad sensitive when it comes to fertility or trying to conceive issues as I can't seem to conceive baby #2. Also, not to mention that my cardiologist didn't allow me to have one this year.

Anyway, enough about my baby drama. Today happens to be a milestone for my son because he's having his first (ever) swimming lesson. And to show my support, I made sure that his swim cap, goggles, swimwear, and kick board are all Lightning McQueen related.

For this summer, we initially thought of enrolling Big Boy Z to the MILO Best Basketball summer program at Ateneo but when I called, I was informed that Z was too young. So, we opted to enroll him in swimming instead but their department was not answering our call.

Easter Egg Hunt at Fun Ranch Ortigas

Happy Easter, working moms and readers!

I'm sorry for the late post as I have been very busy with work and all other stuff.

Anyway, so this Easter, we've decided to have Big Boy Z's first ever egg hunting activity. I scouted the Internet for possible Easter activities and I stumbled upon Mommy Practicality. It was a treasure throve of information and I am so thankful for Mommy Louise!

Out of all the activities, Fun Ranch Ortigas was the nearest from our place so we've decided to give it a go.

Poster courtesy of the Fun Ranch Wordpress

It was so easy to have a reservation. First, I called their Ortigas office at (02) 706-2887 and I was informed to email their PR / Marketing Department at kidsrulehere.funranch@gmail.com

Goodbye, Courageous Caitie!

The Internet is in mourning as three-year-old Caitie Lucas joins her Creator today.

Even if I don't know her family personally, I have followed her story ever since her parents created the page "Courageous Caitie" on Facebook. I was touched by how much faith this little family has to the Lord and I witnessed how much hope they have that their little girl will get well.

Visita Iglesia 2016 (Bulacan Edition)

We woke up early on Maundy Thursday to start our Visita Iglesia. As I have mentioned on my previous post, I will guide you to our Bulacan route and it started off at Malolos, Bulacan.

But before that, we reached NLEX via Valenzuela exit by eight in the morning so we were able to start our church tour by nine. Visita Iglesia is a Holy Week practice where devotees visit and pray in at least 7 separate churches. It is usually done on Maundy Thursday, or if the churches are far apart, it can reach up to Easter Sunday. 

For our family's tradition, we do it every Maundy Thursday, riding in a rented van with packed lunches consisting of chicken adobo, red salted eggs, boiled greens, rice, C2 apple drinks, and jugs of cool water. This is our usual menu except for last year where we cooked tempura veggies instead of boiled greens.

Holy Week 2016

My sister from Canada went home this month after not visiting the Philippines for three years. She said that she missed everything about our country hence she scheduled her visit during the Holy Week.

Christmas 2013

March 2016

She arrived via Cathay Pacific at the NAIA terminal 3 last March 22nd and my husband and I, together with my mom, brother, and other sister, came to welcome her home. Alas, a few tears were shed but my sister was very anxious as apparently, her third luggage has gone missing!