Taking Time Off

Hey, everyone! Just like the previous weeks, I've been pretty preoccupied with my upcoming project. Pre-op requirements, meeting with suppliers, coming up with a good menu and doing our sales and marketing kit. Still have not started staff pooling, maybe this coming week. Not really decided on the compensation package yet, which is very important to my future employees. So much work to do, so little time. Target opening date is third week of April. Oh well, I guess we'll just have to move it to a later date if things aren't ready by then.


I've decided to take a breather for awhile. Spend some time with the hubby and our cuddle pup...and maybe harass some contractors a bit (home construction). And get some decent sleep. I haven't been getting my nine hours lately. So much ideas for the business and excitement, I guess. By the way, I am very happy to announce that we now have Internet connection at the townhouse. Finally decided to have it activated, for business (and pleasure), of course. I'm home now having some quiet alone time, the daughter's taking siesta upstairs and I'm waiting for the husband to finish with his "pogi" barber's appointment. Then we are off to Alabang Home Depot and Wilcon to get more construction stuff. When house construction's over, it is gonna be a long while before I set foot on one of those home improvement establishments again.

Going Cold Turkey

Few years back, I was in Malaysia on a business trip. I did not really get much "pasalubong", just two pairs of sunglasses for my cuddle pup; some chocolates and souvenir items for the hubby and my home buddies. While waiting at Kuala Lumpur's cool airport though, I happened to pass by a drugstore and saw some Nicorettes. Without really thinking about it I had my seldom-used (often-used now) card swiped for a USD150.00 bill. I got some patches and gum, for first and second stage Nicotine withdrawal, and excitedly boarded the plane home.


My Mom's been a smoker for most of her life. Her love for that cancer stick is something a non-smoker like myself will never comprehend. I tried smoking in High School and College (some of my pals then were smokers too). Every time I'd try, I would get dizzy half-way through a single stick. All I got were coughing spells, headache and stinky hair. So much for trying to be an "active" smoker.


The Nicorette set I got was for her. This was like 3 years ago. She tried... and she tried in vain. Leftover Nicorettes are now expired. I was surprised when the hubby mentioned to me, around two weeks back, that mommy told him she finally decided to quit smoking effective March 1, 2009. My good husband promised to treat her to a nice Japanese lunch twice a month, if she's successful in her resolve. Mommy confirmed that she's actually going to bid her precious (think Smeagol/Gollum) adieu. It's the first time ever I heard her make that kind of statement. She is now on the 5th day of her supposed "Marlboro-free" life. She was (fingers crossed) a heavy smoker, consuming one to two packs a day. It must be a very difficult stage for her. She's been extra cranky the past days. I guess withdrawal from any kind of addiction is like being on an emotional roller coaster ride...it can cause depression and even insomia. You can find helpful articles on smoking at http://quitsmoking.about.com.


Withdrawal from any addiction is tough. One can get help from physicians and/or community support groups. My two cents, for non-drug-related-not-so-serious addiction, going cold turkey is the best route to take. With strong willpower and some encouragement from loved ones and friends, you can kiss unhealthy habits goodbye!

photo from www.geckoandfly.com

Laying Low Productive

I have not been really active on line lately. For one thing I've been feeling really lousy, bad cough and cold for about a week now. Got it from Bea. She's better though. Just a little coughing, her doctor said it's nothing to be really alarmed of. It's been pretty hot in the Metro lately. Temperature's rising, summer's almost here.


Another thing is I've been busy with something else as well. I have a new project which I will be announcing very soon. I've been working on it for almost three weeks now (actually I've been wanting to go into this for like years). I just want to take care of all legal aspects first before making the announcement. Yesterday I was at DTI (Department of Trade and Industry). I am quite surprised with the development in DTI's process flow. They now have their web program. We can apply and register on line! Just go to their website www.dti.gov.ph, create an account, then you can use their on line facilities. You'll get feedback on your mailbox, 2 to 3 days from submission date. Once you get their approval message, go to specified satellite office, proceed to "web application" booth for signature of the officer. You will then be instructed to pay to the cashier, then voila! You'll go home with your new Business Registration Certificate. The thing with this tool though is all transaction, save for payment option, will be done through the internet. So if there are corrections or revisions, they are not allowed to do it manually. Like what happened to me yesterday. I got a message from them that my application was rejected because I clicked the wrong "product and service" button. the product and service category is something they should really improve on, it should be more "layman" friendly. And their customer hotline assistants are not that knowledgeable on web application. So I just personally went to their Trafalgar office for clarifications. Jonet, the guy in-charge, was very helpful. But I had to look for an internet cafe to adjust the erroneous entry, the nearest (open) one was located at Herrera! It was a long walk to and from the cafe. But I did go home with the certificate. It's pretty cool, really. I felt sorry for those who were there lined up, waiting. If they only knew about the web thing.


So there, I now have my DTI Registration Certificate. Next week I'll work on Mayor's Permit and BIR (Bureau of Internal Revenue). In the meantime, I'll be meeting with some suppliers, canvass for equipments and start interviewing some candidates to fill in staffing requirements, take Decolgen, drink lots of fluid and sleep.

February 16, 2009

February 16, 2009, the husband and I quietly and happily celebrated our 7th year of married coupledom. The day started with the hubby waking me up with a sweet good morning kiss and saying “Happy Anniversary, my love.” Too cheesy for you guys? Well, pardon the cheesiness, it's our anniversary. He surprised me with two dozen arranged red roses and a card (too cheesy, very Hallmarky, wont share it anymore). I don't really like him getting those very expensive bouquets from very expensive shops. I remember he once paid PhP3,000.++ for a bouquet, I really appreciate the gesture but I just don't think it's right to spend that much on things that wither in a few days' time.


The daughter skipped school that day, she was not feeling too well. So we decided to just stay in the area and have day out instead of our planned dinner date, just in case. Had a Japanese lunch at Misato. Ordered Miso soup, Sushi Moriawase (assorted sushi), Kani bacon (crabstick wrapped in bacon with teppan sauce), Ika sashimi (squid), Zaru soba (cold noodles) for me and yummy chahan (Japanese fried rice) for the hubby. Sushi and sashimi weren't really that good. It was okay. But not as good as the ones they have at Sugi, Tanabe and that Japanese resto at President's Ave.,BF Parañaque. There are not really much good Japanese restaurants in the area. There's a new one at Westgate we'd like to try out, Red Kimono. Actually, our co-parent at Rosemont invited us to the Grand opening, but it was also last Monday. We politely declined. Then we had a great dessert at Bizu. If you love chocolate as much as we do, you may want to try out their Cake Desire. It was soooo good! "A deadly and delicious combination of milk and dark chocolate ganache with Kahlua, creme brulee and sable crust topped with strawberry miroir finish." He had single espresso and I had tea to go with it. We were so stuffed after, we just had to walk off the bloated-tummy feeling.

Bizu's Desire

A Lovely Weekend

Our Valentine’s Day was spent as a family at Alabang Town Center. Just our usual weekend bonding time with the little one, sans the nanny. February 14th is no biggie for us, our Wedding Anniversary on the 16th is a more important event. Actually, since we got married in 2002, I think V Day’s a bummer. Had to pay extra for the flowers at the wedding as the supplier said it’s “Valentine’s”. And more often than not, flowers sold a couple of days after are mostly leftovers. That's what we get for tying the knot two days after February 14. Well, it was Santuario de San Antonio's only free Saturday before March at that time. The hubby wanted to get married before turning 37. The sexy Valentine card and DVD’s Chuck gave me made me smile, though. Now I have all three Resident Evil and Matrix, been waiting for them to go on sale for a long time. Not exactly your usual V Day present, huh? After years of being together, my hubby now knows what works for me.


We were at Riverside Clubhouse in Pasig last Sunday. My friend hosted a Bikini Bottom party for her two kids, Heather (4) and Hans (1). It was a fun-filled afternoon, with lots of food, games, and prizes. Our daughter's dream of dancing with Spongebob has finally been realized. LOL

Bea dancing with Spongebob

Inside a bubble

Goodbye, Huggies! (?)

Seems like we wont be including Huggies XXL diaper on our grocery list from now on. The little girl's been going to bed nappy-free for four nights now. Great news for the environment...and our pockets of course.


The daughter's been using disposable diaper since birth. As I believe it's more hygienic and easier to use (use and dispose) than cloth diapers. Prokids from newborn to around a year and a half. Tried Pampers, she had a little rash so we just used a piece and gave away the rest. Then we tried Huggies. She's been a Huggies baby until last Friday evening. Except for the time she tried Pampers and one outing wherein her yaya forgot to change her diaper, she never really suffered from any diaper rash. A couple of months before turning 2, we already started with potty training. We did not get the mini potties anymore, we trained her to use the big toilet right way, got the removable toddler potty seat (which her ninong calls "adapter") and a step stool.


It was difficult at first, as expected, with bladder control and everything. Then the mom of her playmate, suggested we try this trick: no nappy for daytime, or when she's awake, and make her sit on the toilet every two hours from last pee (to save yourself from having to clean up after). We tried it, with what I read from the book "What to Expect the Toddler Years," potty train for 3 days, if it doesn't work, the child is not ready yet, try again after a few weeks. VERY IMPORTANT thing to do is talk to your child about potty training. I instructed the maids (when I'm not with her) to remind her all the time that she's not wearing diaper and she should tell us if she has to make "weewee" or "poopoo". So far, we've only had 2 weewee accidents and one pooping incident at a mall. She was telling us she had to make poopoo and we didn't believe her because she just came from the toilet, her yaya was new, then she went like "Here, smell it!" LOL. It was a gradual process. From no diaper at home, to wearing diaper only at the mall or when going on a long trip (more than an hour). Until January 2008, we were getting ready for toddler school, she was 2 1/2, I was putting her diaper on when she suddenly said "Mom, I don't want to wear diaper anymore." Woohoo! She'd only wear diaper when asleep since.


Though she's been keeping her diaper dry throughout the night for more than six months now, with no daytime accidents, it was just last weekend that I finally tried no more night nappy. Hey, it's a family bed okay? We will be sleeping on the floor if she'd accidentally pee on it. Now I ask her to sit on the toilet before going to sleep, remind her she's not wearing diaper and to just wake up mom in case she has to go to the toilet. Have an underpad on hand though, in case she wont make it, it's what they use in the hospitals so the bedsheets wont get soaked. Every morning, I'd congratulate her and tell her I'm proud of all her progress,not just the potty thing. She'd reply with a smug grin on her face. Four nights going...I hope we can finally say goodbye to Huggies!

House Progress

On my way to work this morning, I was on the phone with Arch. Ramos. We're getting the additional battens for the roofing through him instead of Stone 2000. His supplier will give it to us at PhP11,000.00, almost 50% cheaper than Stone 2000's PhP21,000.++ quote. We really shouldn't just say yes to whatever they say, we have to scout for the best price possible. And supplier/contractor really make money on add-ons.


We did not get APO engineered wood anymore, as originally planned. Price went from PhP1,200.00 to PhP1,700.00 per square meter. It's now beyond the budget (with all the adjustments). And we have to keep cost from ballooning too much. Last Saturday, we made partial payment for Steiger laminated flooring. We were able to get contract price at PhP70,000.++ (vs. APO's PhP204,000.++), for entire second floor up to the attic, including labor. Well they're entirely different from each other in quality. But we'll be okay with laminates for now.


I am now canvassing for quality Graphicoat painted glass for the bar and kitchen splashboard. Arch. Co gave us two suppliers to call. Pacific Glass and CNS Unique. Called them up last Friday. We're definitely not getting from Pacific Glass! The sales officer who took the call was kinda rude. Since I'm not familiar with this item, it's only natural that I ask her about it. She explained in a way that made me sound so dumb. Hello! It's a potential buyer calling, you may want to be a little pleasant and accommodating? If all their sales people were like that, I won't be surprised if the company closes shop and they find themselves unemployed soon. CNS Unique was totally different from that other supplier. Beth, who's not even in sales, was very nice and answered all my queries, explaining every detail without a tinge of "impatience" in her voice. I asked for swatches to be presented to us so we can decide right away.


Applied first coating of paint...two more coats to go, using the final shade (Davis Liquid Tile for outdoor and Boysen Virtuoso Silk Touch indoor). Door jambs and cabinet framing are all in place; entry and cabinet doors will be delivered, hopefully, within the month. We are expecting full installation of Vignet uPVC windows by February 15, as committed by the fabricator. With the way things are going, it is very unlikely we'll be moving to our new home within the month. Maybe next month. Unless we ask Architect Ramos, our contractor, to rush things. There's really no urgency. We want things done right. Every time I visit, I check the lines and workmanship. If it's not acceptable to me, I ask them to do it again... even if they have to undo everything. I warned them beforehand that I'm particular about quality of work. Well I ask them nicely, with matching please and occasional lunch treat for all workers. With all the effort and penny poured into this project, it should very well be worth it.

Almost there

Monkeyin' Around

First saw this comic on my cousin-in-law's Facebook page. I believe she got it from www.CartoonStock.com. I could not help but laugh out loud! We've seen and heard all about that politician sibling of theirs. Actually, that primate is so talented he was able to make clones of himself. They're like all over.

Roof Tile Dilemma

I was at the construction site yesterday. Some of the windows have already been installed, more will be delivered and installed these coming days. They're now polishing the ceiling and walls, no second coat yet, but we've chosen colors already. Most of the bathroom tiles are already in place, and we now have some cabinets too! My sister-in-law came to check out the progress. She's very excited about the house as well. She was supposed to stay for a short while, but we ended up having a 3-hour lunch at Cafe Breton and practically spent the rest of the afternoon together! Which, I'm sure, from our husbands' point of view, is not a "practical" thing to do! LOL


Going back to house progress, the roof saga continues. Picking up from my Raise the Roof post last time, well we had a meeting with them (us, Arch. Ramos, Arch. Mark, Stone 2000 Account Executive, Stone 2000 Project Manager, and Stone 2000 sub-contractor). They were supposed to add battens to raise the slope and apex, around 4 inches. I've been waiting for price quote for additional materials...since it's their lack of coordination that resulted to the problem, we will only shoulder materials for readjustment; I got the quote just the other day. And it was a whopping PhP21K! Just for additional battens?! It's like they're trying to squeeze in labor cost as well! I told them I am not paying that much for additional battens (we've already spent more than 250K just for roofing alone), Zay, the Account Executive said it was for an 8-inch adjustment, and she'll try to negotiate for at least 10% discount (which, I think, is still too much). I called for another meeting yesterday with our contractor and architect, and we all agreed 4-5 inches is enough, since we have secured undersheeting. So I called up Zay again, this morning, and told her to give price quote for 4-inch adjustment, she said yes at first, now she just sent me a SMS saying the sub-contractor had already installed half of the area...8-inches adjustment! My reply to her was "how can they do that when I just got the quote last Monday, and we DID NOT agree to it?" No reply from her yet. I'm starting to get really peeved with this roofing brouhaha.

Formative Years and Beyond

We already have results of the pre-schooler's 3rd Quarter Evaluation, had the tutorial chat with her teacher. We are very pleased with her performance in school. She’s doing great in academics, perfected her Math exam and three mistakes in Reading. She's been writing (legibly) her full name without a guide. Just need to continue encouraging her to take care of belongings, sharing, waiting for her turn, and as much as possible avoid teasing her classmates too much. And we have to practice some scissor cutting, blunt-tip of course, catching objects thrown and pouring liquid into glass without spilling. Yes, they get graded for those as well and she got C’s (Capable) in those developmental aspects.


We do worksheets everyday, sometimes every other day. Like I said it’s fifteen to thirty minutes. Not to strenuous for Bea, she normally breezes through them as they really just serve as follow through on their lessons at school. The idea is to value education and make studying a habit, not to make it her life. My two cents, if your child sees you taking time out to study with her, teaching her, answering her questions… it’s like communicating to her that learning and school are important. But we should not forget that school is just one aspect of a child’s life. What good is it to have very high I.Q. when your child is struggling in the personal-socio-emotional aspect of her life? Sure, I would like to see her excel academically, but for her to have a successful, meaningful life, she needs more than that. Experience is said to be the best teacher. She has to feel and experience life as it happens, not just as what was written on her books or lectured by the academe. Life is not just knowing all there is to know about the universe, it’s also about being able to tell your grandchildren when you’re old and gray about all the dumb and silly things you did when you were a child, the trick or treats and other parties you’ve attended, your adventures and misadventures, the relationships you made, lost and managed to keep.


The formative years are the most crucial stage in a child’s life. It’s when our child starts to develop attitude, habit, mannerism, etc. So it’s important that we guide and support them through it. And of course, parents will always do their best to be there for their child, to love and support, even (way,way) beyond the formative years.

On the Wrong Side of History

A short quote from Barack Obama's January 20 Inaugural Speech:

To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history; but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist.

No wonder he wouldn't take her calls then. Does this mean we won't be seeing much pictures of the U.S. 44th President and our country's 14th President together? Well the palace can always use photoshop.

For full text on Obama's Inaugural Address, go to www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/01/20/obama.politics/index.html

Kids Elope For Africa Wedding

Received an e-mail this morning from a friend. I couldn't believe it. I was just staring at my monitor (mouth open) while reading it. And I still couldn't believe it. I googleized it, and it actually happened. Pasted this article from Http://news.sky.com and photo from www.guardian.co.uk:

Three German children have been caught trying to run away to Africa for a wedding in the sun.

The children wanted to get married in Africa - but only made it to the railway station

Young romantic Mika, six, and his seven-year-old girlfriend Anna Bell were so enamoured with each other they planned an escape to tie the knot in warmer climes.

Dragging along Mika's sister Anna-Lena, aged five, the kids packed three suitcases "filled with food, swimming costumes, a lilo and even sunglasses," said police spokesman Holger Jureczko.

The idea for the romantic trip began when Mika told the two girls about his recent holiday in Italy. They decided to head for Africa while their families slept on New Year's Day.

"From this, the children began to make plans for the future," said Mr Jureczko.

In the early hours of 2009, the children left their house in the suburbs of Hanover, and took a tram for the central station.

As they waited for the train to the airport wearing their holiday gear, they caught the attention of a guard who contacted police.

We wanted to take the train to the airport, and then catch a plane, then we would unpack, and get married once we arrived.

Mika Sievert, on his plan to marry in Africa.

Two officers managed to convince the young lovers that they would struggle to get to Africa without money or a plane ticket.

"What drew our attention was not so much that they were small children but that they had a lot of swim gear with them.

"And when we asked them where they were going they said straight away 'to Africa!', said Mr Jureczko.

"The policeman questioning them found that incredible! Who would think of going to Africa at that age?"

The children were given away by all their summer luggage

When asked why they were going, groom-to-be Mika explained his seemingly simple plan.

"We wanted to take the train to the airport, and then catch a plane, then we would unpack, and get married once we arrived. Then we wanted to go for a little holiday," he said.

Fiancee Anna-Bell said: "We wanted to get married there and enjoy ourselves."

Mika's mother, Annabell Sievert, said she could not believe they had tried to elope overseas.

She said:"I was shocked. I thought I must be watching a film. We tried to find them, but couldn't. There are a lot of places they could have wandered to."

To make up for their disappointment at not reaching Africa, the children were given a special tour of the police headquarters at Hanover station and shown around the detention cell.

Anna-Bell, Anna-Lena and Mika at the police post at the main railway station in Hanover, central Germany, after being caught heading for the airport so Anna-Bell and Mika could 'get married in Africa'. Photograph: /AFP/Getty Images

Why Africa? Maybe because they were thinking of Gloria and Moto-moto, Madagascar 2: Escape to Africa? I find it a little amusing...but very disturbing.

Tattooed On My Mind

What song?

Tattooed On My Mind by D'Sound

Baby you'll soon forget about all,

or maybe you'll miss it like I do.

One thing's for sure I'm on a doubt, spend too much time thinkin' of you

chorus

And I can't get you out of my dreams

Now I know that you're the dangerous kind

And your smile is tattooed on my mind

And I can't get you out of my dreams

Don't wanna write,

I don't wanna call,

I would not know what to say

It should be you

That's how I want it to be

Tell me you feel the same way

chorus

And I can't get you out of my dreams

Now know that you're a danger first kind

And your smile is tattooed on my mind

And I can't get you out of my dreams...oh!

Oh, Yesterday, I was feelin' safe, oh

All I do today is tryin' to be BRAVE

and no melody can seem to suit my mind...

and now I curse you for being so sweet and so kind

chorus

And I can't get you out of my dreams

Now I know that you're a dangerous kind

And your face is tattooed on my mind

And I can't get you out of my dreams..

Yes I know you're tattooed

On my mind you're tattooed

What about it?

On our way to work this morning, I was feeling a little sentimental. Told my hubby as much, his face went like "oh, no! we're having light rock this morning", turned on the radio and tuned in on 96.3 WRock. Then his face lit up and he started singing along when the DJ played this song. It's one of our songs. We first heard it together on one of our earlier dates. We instantly fell in love with the song. We just can't help but smile when we hear it, it still has the same effect up to now. Really.

Rosemont School Father's Day 2009

Yesterday Rosemont School held its annual Father’s Day at Woodrose Gym with the theme “Dad’s Camp”. Kicked off the day with a parade of students and teachers divided into three teams: Blue Hikers, Red Explorers and Green Trekkers. Good thing dad and daughter were with the Blue Hikers, the dad wouldn’t be too happy wearing green, he’s a Blue Eagle (Grade School to High School); the grannies, myself and even the nanny…we all came in blue to support our team. It was a fun-filled event with raffle and games such as catch the ball, log relay, obstacle course, scavenger hunt, etc. In the obstacle course, dad and child had to do the hula-hoop! It was just so funny. The highlight of the day was the cheer dancing competition. Yes, dads included! Some were really just feeling it! Mothers had a blast watching their children and husbands shake their bonbons and pompoms. LOL. The program ended with a dance number from all the teachers and the awarding of winners. Blue Hikers are this year’s Champion! Woohoo! The team captains brought home the trophies and each kid got to bring home a medal, loot bag, raffle prizes and lots of happy thoughts.


All the hard work of the students, teachers, and parents paid off. Hats off to the teachers! It must have been hard training the kids (age ranging from 2 to 6 years old) with the routines and all, they even facilitated all the games, with help from the school administrative people of course. The organizing parents were able to raise some funds for the event through corporate sponsors. Food kiosks were at the parking area inside the compound, in case people would want to grab something to eat, best seller was the snow cone. It was a very long day. But we all had a grand time!

Cool dads strutting their stuff; my husband's just shy that's why he's hiding behind another person LOL:   

Candid shots:
   

My cuddly wuddlies after a very long day, tired but happy:

Stick Shift

With the daughter's frenzied school schedule this week, they have been practicing for the school Father's Day on Sunday, the family had to adjust to her different school hours. They should have just stuck to regular schedule --she's in the morning class. She skipped ballet last Tuesday, because school practice was 1-3 p.m., and ballet's at 3. Her usual nap time is 1-3:30 p.m., so no siesta Tuesday and Thursday. Since she's the only family member who can not drive yet, our driver's schedule will depend on her schedule.

Yesterday, more than ever, I felt the need to learn driving Manual Transmission vehicle. I only drive automatic, you see. And we only have one A/T car (others are M/T), and it was coded yesterday. For non-resident of Metro Manila, we have vehicle coding here --depends on the plate ending, some vehicles must be off the major roads from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on certain days of the week; e.g. Monday, plates ending in 1 and 2, Tuesday, 3 and 4, etc. Going back to my story, the hubby was not feeling well, he couldn't drive me to work. I took the driver with me, and just went on half day. Had to do payroll. I guess, it would be easier if I were to learn how to drive stick. Then I would not have to depend on someone else to drive for me when no automatic's available. I can drive anything, anywhere as long as it's A/T. Yes, even a truck! I tried learning before, but it was just so stressful... especially with the hubby ranting "Don't stop! Don't stop!" when he actually meant "Don't ride the clutch!" We were on an intersection. LOL. Yeah, really. Maybe I should just enroll in A1 or ask the good husband to get a new car! Bwahaha

It's Friday. Happy weekend everyone!

Raise The Roof!

Our lot is not that big. It's around 248 square meters. There's a 3-meter setback for corner lots, we just have to maximize every inch of space we can actually build on. With the family getting together every so often, we need space to accommodate more or less thirty to forty people. Having this in mind, our architect designed a house with basement parking, attic and lanai. The thing with attic is the heat. Even with lots of insulation, it will still be hot, especially during summer, if you were to use just the usual galvanized iron sheets. The architect recommended CPAC Monier roof tile, which they say is cool (literally). Installation and material now costs around PhP1500.00 per square meter for the Elabana design. Good thing we canvassed and made partial payment early on, we were able to freeze the contract price at PhP850.00 per sq. meter. Good deal, eh? These tiles are heavy, our structural engineer made sure the foundation, posts and beams will be able to take on all the weight.

We had problems with the initial design. The project architect made a mistake, the roof beam on the stairway going to the attic, was low. They redesigned the entire area and roof detail.

The insulation, galvanized iron under sheeting, and battens (it's where they bolt the roof tiles on) are in place. Now the Stone 2000 (CPAC Monier Distributor)sub-contractor is saying the slope is not high enough! Oh, man! Talked to our contractor, Alex Ramos and architect, Alex Co, about it. They discussed with Stone 2000. The solution is to raise the apex a bit, just enough to avoid water backflow during heavy rains. So they'll add more battens to make it higher. Hopefully roofing will be done in less than a week's time. Now I just have to follow up the cabinet design (again) with AGC Design Concepts.

Problem with HTML Editor

Hey, guys! I am encountering some difficulties with the host site's HTML editor. I can't justify, change fonts or drag photos. But I want to continue sharing my thoughts and other stuff. So in the meantime no visual frills, just plain ol' sharing. Will just edit when it's possible to do so already.

Bea's 1st Quarter Doctor's Appointment

For the past 3 and a half years, we've been quite happy with the daughter's pediatrician at Asian Hospital, Dr. Maria Ana Yu-Abe. We really appreciate the way she takes care of our cuddle pup. We can call her anytime, through her mobile phone, even in the middle of the night, when it's really just so important to have a doctor tell you what to do when you're panicking over high fever, diarrhoea, vomiting, etc. But we're really thankful to God, so far no serious ailment, save for a bout with the parasite Entamoeba Histolyca last June-- Amoebiasis, which we successfully managed without having to be confined. The kiddo will most likely freak out with those intravenous plugs!

Sent her an SMS last Friday, asking if she's holding clinic the following day, she replied in affirmative. After lunch the hubby, the little one and I, sans the nanny, went to Robinson's Department Store at Festival Mall to get the little girl some stamps and DVDs, as she's been asking us to buy her more; we had Italian food at Sbarro's after. Taking it as an opportunity to prep her for the doctor's appointment, she's scheduled for DPT-Polio booster. I wanted the trip to the mall to be the highlight of the day for her, not the vaccination. She was sitting on my lap, our arms around her, while the doctor gave her the shot. She cried a bit. We told her that vaccination's important so she'll continue being healthy and that Dr. Abe's there to help Mom and Dad take care of her. Then of course, the stamps! The stamps are waiting for her at the car. That got her smiling again. She bade her doctor goodbye with a sweet kiss on the cheek and two thumbs up!

She's fit and healthy. Her weight's just right for her age and height. She's scheduled for her annual deworming next week. Supposedly this coming Friday, but we have Father's Day at Rosemont on Sunday. So we'll have it next Friday instead. Now it's very important that you do this with supervision/instruction from the doctor, as I've heard it can sometimes cause serious illness, even death. Heard the story from Mercury, that's why they now require prescription for Antiox.

Her next visit will be on April for Flu booster and after her 4th birthday for another booster. For complete recommended schedule of vaccination, you may want to visit http://www.babycenter.com.ph/baby/health/immunisationchildhooddiseases/. Or better yet, consult regularly with your child's pediatrician.

Long Holidays

The husband and I were all family bonding time from December 23 to January 4. He took his mandatory leave from work and I... well my mom gave me early vacation (he he). We took the opportunity to spend time with the little one going malling, visiting friends and relatives outside Alabang. Construction was at a standstill since all workers were on vacation and no business for suppliers and fabricators as well. Now we have to rush, rush!

Godsiblings Bea and Rafa goofin' around @ Dome, Shangri-La Plaza Mall:

Celebrating the Holidays

We spent Christmas Eve at my lolo's house with my mom, my uncle and the household staff. It was a little somber. My other aunts, uncles, and cousins were coming the following day, since it was also my uncle's 50th birthday, instead of the usual 24th get together. My brother had to work until 11 p.m., he was home before 12 midnight though. I just prepared Pasta Carbonara (recipe to follow), mom grilled some steak and made vegetable and fruit salad. It was pretty quiet. Too quiet actually that we left an hour after midnight. I started picturing where and how things were when Ima was still around. Miss that granny so much.

As tradition, 25th is bonding time with the husband's family at my sister-in-law's house. As I mentioned on my previous post, I brought Callos. There's turkey, lechon, potato salad... I forget the other stuff, not that they weren't yummy, just experiencing a little memory lapse here. We spent the entire afternoon at their house with the usual chitchat and wine drinking.

Sorry we missed out on my uncle's party at my lolo's. But I'm sure it was fun. With everyone there to celebrate his special day with him. It was the 1st time in years that he had his birthday here in Manila. Mom said it was a one day affair. I heard they also threw the golden boy a surprise party in Scarborough when he got back.

New Year's Eve with the hubby's family was at his brother's house. Salmon, prawns, roast beef, baked macaroni, chicken galantina, potato and fruit salad were at the buffet table. Played a game of Uno cards with our nieces and nephews (shooting Mexican guy for wager), I lost big time.

Christmas morning:

Highland Sunday

December 21 we all went to Tagaytay to celebrate my uncle and aunt's wedding anniversary. Us, my mom, my uncles, and some friends of my aunt's. It was just a day trip. We met up at the junction, and convoyed our way to Tagaytay Highlands. Temperature was down cold, almost zero visibility in some parts of the city. My mom was late so we got there past 10 a.m., after one trip on the Funicular, we all agreed to go to Highlands China Palace Restaurant to have early lunch. The host ordered the group set meal with crabs and additional dim sum for everyone. It was a big feast! Everything was yummy, except for the lotus rice, which was part of the set, but it wasn’t that bad, it just tasted weird. We were all so full, we just had to take tea after. We stayed in the chapel for a while, then they all played paint ball while my cuddly wuddly and I went horseback riding. And then there was the trip to the zoo and frolicking around the compound. They wanted to ride the cable car but the queue was just too long.

A trip to Tagaytay is not complete without passing by Ilog Maria in Silang, Cavite. Ilog Maria is a bee farm; it’s like our local version of Burt’s Bees. They sell pure honey, bee propolis-based products that are actually good. You may want to check out their site www.ilogmaria.com.

Bea negotiating the chopsticks

Horseback riding with my cuddly wuddly

Office Christmas Party 2008

We had a party here at the office last December 19. Nothing grand. Just a simple staff and marketing get together. Good old parlor games and videoke. No ham though, unlike previous years. But we raffled out some home appliances, nobody went home empty-handed. It was fun, especially for the kids. My cuddle pup had a blast!

Bea cheating on Musical Chairs LOL:

Family Feud

They are on our broadsheets' front page today. It's just so sad for their family to face this kind of adversity. But the saddest thing about it is the effect of this controversy on the relationship of the family members. I feel for the other Brodetts who were dragged into this drug scandal. But it's really about the Brodett on trial, not them "exactly." They could have just squabbled and talked amongst themselves and demanded for the family involved to clear the Brodett name instead of going public like that. Well, it might be the right thing to do. But somehow it just doesn't feel "that" right. You don't protect, but you shouldn't push down either. My two cents.

It kinda reminds me of Michael Corleone's words to Fredo when he took Moe Green's side on the casino business buyout : "Fredo, you're my older brother, and I love you. But don't ever take sides with anyone against the Family again. Ever. " Yeah, I know it's a Mafia movie and Michael was one cruel person; he had most of the characters killed --even his own brother, but the movie speaks of how far one can go to protect the Family.

I have no idea what the Brodett family relationship with each other's like. I only heard about them from the papers. One can only speculate. I'm soooo against illegal drugs. And I'm all for "death for drug traffickers." But I don't think I could do that to my sibling or nephew, if it were to happen to my family (I'm praying it won't). I'd have them straightened out... get support from all family members, send them to rehab, help them clean up their lives. I'd intervene and do something about it way before it would become a public spectacle. As in the case of the Brodetts, the "involved" Brodetts should face the music and pay the price, if they're really guilty; but for the other Brodetts... a public statement that "we are clean, we do not use and/or sell drugs" would have been enough. They also have neighbors, colleagues and friends who can attest to that. It would be so wrong if they will try to help the family involved get away with what they supposedly did. Let them take the rap... but no need to push them further down. Cause no matter how bad things get, your brother will forever be the son of your mother and father.

Happy New Year!

Hey, everyone! It has been a long while. As a good friend pointed out when we visited him last January 2, my last post was the “Fruit Salad”. It was a very long holiday… too long actually. Now here we are welcoming the year with a long to-do list: the hubby’s list, the little one’s, construction, office payable, etc, etc. Will start real posting maybe mid or late this week. Just taking time out to say I hope you all had a warm and blessed Christmas with your families, significant others, and friends; and may this year be better than the last one. May we all be blessed with good health, true happiness, peace of mind and better finances!