Yena's World

BDO Junior Savers Club

2012-01-31T12:51:00.002+08:00

Yena has been a member of BDO Junior Savers Club since last year. I see to it that any amount of money her godparents and relatives gave her are deposited to her account. Now she also has a piggy bank that she religiously fill up every time someone gave her some coins.

And since BDO is the nearest bank to where i work (not to mention they have a number of branches every where!!), i guess i will open the same savings account for my second daughter Yani one of these days.

If you're also planning to open a BDO Junior Savers Club for your kids, here are the requirements:

2 valid IDs of Parent/s or Guardian

1×1 ID picture of the Parent/s or Guardian and Child

Original and Photocopy of Child’s Birth Certificate

Initial deposit requirement - PHP 500.00

Minimum monthly maintaining balance - PHP 100.00

Minimum balance to earn interest - PHP 500.00

BDO Junior Savers Club is an exclusive savings account for children 12 years old and below, it has fixed interest rate of 0.500% per annum. The savings account is available with specially-designed passbook and shopping card which can be used in all SM Department Stores and affiliate establishments.

Kids 8 years and above can already get their own ATM card and for kids 6 years and below will have a Junior Savers Club ID card.

Walgreens got all you need!

2012-01-24T04:00:00.003+08:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Walgreens for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

Having two daughters make me not only a proud mom but also a frugal shopper. I only shop for their dress and shoes when there’s news of Sale! When my first daughter was born I only buy a few of her clothes and some of her clothes were kept. Now her dress would be passed on to my second daughter. And what I shop to get some poits on membership or savings club. It’s one of the frugal shopper needs to learn. It’s like shopping but getting something back in return. If you’re one frugal shopper, it’s time to know about exciting deals at Walgreens!

Walgreens is offering a special discount on annual membership for its Walgreens Prescription Savings Club. For only $10 a year, a family membership covers everyone in your immediate family (your spouse, dependents below 22 and your pets!) Individuals can also join for only $5 a year! Just join the club and receive discount prices on your prescriptions. You can also save on more than 8,000 brand-name and all generic medications. Get discounts on flu shots, pet prescriptions, nebulizers and diabetic supplies. Receive some bonuses when you buy Walgreens brand products and photofinishing services. Get all these savings love only at Walgreens.

If you want to receive news and updates, just like Walgreens on Facebook and follow Walgreens on Twitter @Walgreens. It’s time to get something back from your shopping.

Yena is Four!

2012-01-23T19:38:00.002+08:00

After getting her surprise birthday gift (Disney Playhouse Tent) after our Sunday mass, we celebrated her birthday at my in laws with her cousins. She was so happy blowing her graham cake made by husband. and they played with her play house tent the whole day.
Husband took a leave to celebrate her birthday at her school the next day. This time she blew another graham cake and shared a meal with her classmates. Her 4th birthday was a blast.

Husband and I were so happy we made her happiest on her birthday. As for me, I always thank the Lord I have a daughter like her. I know I will have a forever friend in her who makes me happy all the time.

Yena and her little sister Yani

2011-12-06T10:03:00.003+08:00

I uploaded some of Yena's recent pictures on facebook and decided to make the first album for her sister Yannie Solenn aka bubbles or Yani. Our little yani looks like Yena when she was a baby. Here's one picture that show how they look like mirror image of each other.

Yena @ 1 month old
Yelena Hayden. Her name is a combination and variation of daddy’s fave greek mythology character Helen of Troy and my favorite Hollywood star Hayden Panettiere. We call her many nick names like Yena, Boyengyeng, Yenggay, Aruray, Aru and a lot more.

She was born on January 15, 2008 at 8:41pm weighing 2.95kgs and 49cm long via Caesarean Section at De La Salle University Medical Center Dasmarinas Cavite Philippines.

Yani @ 2 weeks old
Yannie Solenn. Her name is a combination and variation of daddy’s fave stars at the moment Anne Curtis and Solenn Heusaff. Yena decided that we call her Baby Bubbles (since she’s Blossom of Powerpuff girls, her cousin Eya is Buttercup and Yael is Mojo). So everybody calls her bubbles, I call her Yani and daddy calls her Pogi (since she looks like a boy!).

She was born on November 12, 2011 at 6:07pm weighing 3.2kgs and 52cm long via Caesarean Section at De La Salle University Medical Center Dasmarinas Cavite Philippines.

Will blog more about the two of them the coming days! ^_^

Unlimited Possibilities Under the Sun!

2011-10-27T21:01:00.004+08:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Net10 for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

Have you heard about Net10 Unlimited? If not, it’s high time to reconsider your mobile phone subscription and get to know how to call, send SMS or browse the net with boundless possibilities for only $50 a month!

At Net10 Unlimited, you don’t need to be tied up with contracts and getting your unit is trouble-free, there is no credit checks needed! Your bill won’t give you heartaches with surprise charges. The plan only gives you with only trusted phones for you to choose from. You can only get your unit from LG, Motorola, Kyocera, Nokia and Samsung. Imagine getting the subscription for you and your loved ones and get in touched with them 24/7. And how much more it is helpful if you have a business to run? Getting in touched with your workers and suppliers all through the day can help your business double its profitability. But that’s only a sample of the many possibilities Net10 Unlimited can offer.

Monthly Plans at Net10 Unlimited includes Easy Minute Plus Plan that starts at $15.00 for 200 minutes of call. In Pay-as-you-go Plans, your minutes are carry over with active service. This includes Unlimited calls, text or data for $50 a month. Plus you can have the power to switch plans each month according to your needs without having to pay for penalties or extra fees. Long Distance Service is charged for about 15 cents for minute and is available to over 75 international countries.

You can choose your unit from simple phones for under $15, phones with essential features for $40 and full QWERTY keyboard phones for under $60. You can check these all out their facebook and twitter and read about what Real NET10 customer is talking about this unlimited plan.

Also check out these videos on What Rob has to say or for more information on Net10 Unlimited plans;

Check out the never ending possibilities Net10 Unlimited has to offer and get your own unit now to enjoy unlimited ways to be in touched with everyone.

Colorful Headbands for Toddlers

2011-10-26T18:13:00.006+08:00

Yena isn't the type who enjoys wearing headbands. She doesn't like it, until i brought home some colorful headbands one day. Now she chooses what headband to wear to match her outfit. She and the headbands always get compliments wherever we go.

her piglet headband

her doggie headband

flowery headband

not her happy self wearing her orangey headband with her cousins

Keeping Track of your Kids on Tracfone

2011-10-25T00:01:00.004+08:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of TracFone for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

Summertime can get to be a very busy season when your kids have different activities to attend to, and as a parent it is more than the moral obligation to know where your kids are in a specific moment. Knowing their whereabouts give us peace of mind more than anything else. But keeping track of them can be very pricey. Now if you’re looking for ways or a low cost phone to get in touch with your kids any time that won’t create a hole in your pockets, try tracfone!

Tracfone offers the cheapest way to own and use a cell phone in America. You don’t need to worry about reception or connectivity, tracfone has great nationwide coverage! With no contracts, no credit checks, no activation charges or cancellation fees, there’s no surprise on your monthly bills. Plus you can choose any unit you want from the leading cell phone manufacturers like like Motorola, Kyocera, LG, Nokia and Samsung. Choose from simple "Candy Bar" phones, to Bluetooth®-enabled "Smart" phones.You can get to pay your monthly plans with just one click when you go online or with cards available at retails stores across the country. You can enjoy a lot of benefits with your 1 year service cards. Choose your plans according to your call needs, you can have 200 minutes for under $30 and 50 minutes for $9.99! Other wireless service charged a higher rate for international calls, tracfone offers same rate for local and international calls per minute so you can call 60 international destinations at no extra cost! It's like getting the best of mobile service at Senior Value!

You can check out other features on these phone by watching the video below…

Tracfone Can Be Everywhere... - Funny home videos are a click away

Now it’s high time to get your kids their own mobile phone and Get into Everywhereness, keep track with them at a very affordable price.

On How to Save Half on Cell Phone Expenses

2011-10-22T01:01:00.004+08:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Straight Talk for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

Have you ever wondered how much you have shelled out on your monthly mobile expenses? Now you can do the math. If you own a cell phone, more often than not you already pay out half of your hard earned money to your calling or texting needs. If you have been an active phone user, imagine the amount of money you could have saved all these years.

Now you can start saving half of your mobile expenses with Straight Talk. Switch to straight talk and get your smart phone with all the apps and games you need. Get the unit you want with smart plan with no contracts, no credit checks and no surprise charges on your monthly bills. You can enjoy The power of Android phones at only $45/month for unlimited use!

Straight Talk has different plans for every users alike. There’s an ‘all you need plan’ for the heavy cell phone users, an unlimited plan that includes unlimited calls, texts, picture messaging and web browsing for whole year for only $499.99. All their plans are free from activation, reactivation and termination fees. Also, you can call internationally for a very, very low rate. You can choose your unit from reconditioned phones and smart phones that come from the leading cell phone manufacturers like LG, Motorola, Kyocera, Nokia and Samsung.

You can check out other informations about Straight Talk and what it offers with the video below:

The Straight Talk Image... by LittleBard95

Saving your hard earned money while enjoying the connectivity of having a cell phone is within reach with Straight Talk. Feel Richer with Android, switch now to Straight Talk and enjoy both world!

Yena's New Stuffs

2011-10-21T10:18:00.002+08:00

We went to my boss birthday surprise last two weeks ago and i brought along Yena to see her godmothers once again. And seems like its Christmas already, Yena brought home some new stuff toys her godmothers gave her and she was so ecstatic to have them...

Her new stuffs; the elephant, hello kitty and Chilli from Plants vs Zombies.

Yena Praying on Video

2011-08-22T13:54:00.003+08:00

She is about to take her afternoon nap today when i requested that she pray their school prayer every after class. i asked her to pray in front of my cellphone and i would record it for posterity's sake and she agreed. We were both laughing while we're watching it. Now she's off to lalaland.

Click to Play and enjoy the video :)

Start Investing Early

2011-08-14T17:45:00.001+08:00

It is not too early to think about your children’s future thus it is never too early to invest money for your children. As parents you can get the hottest penny stocks right now for your kids and start the investment portfolio rolling. At an early age, you can encourage your kids to start investing. Explain in simple terms how kids can earn from their chosen investment. Knowing the basics of investing money will make them interested.

It does not have to be as complicated as explaining how Timothy Sykes sell penny stocks. Just tell the kids that investing is not limited to grown-ups. Inform kids the benefits of learning how to invest early and watch their own money grow. You can help your child to choose what to invest in; they can buy stocks in companies or businesses that interest them. An investment in Toys R Us would surely thrill and excite your child. Your child will be proud to own a piece of one of the biggest toy store.

Show the kids how their investments grow by watching the stock market with them. Inform them when their share of stocks is going up or down. Learning to manage finances at an early age is a good training ground for children to become responsible adults in the future.

Choosing the Best Hair Shampoo for Babies

2011-07-01T05:46:00.003+08:00

Generally speaking, moms are very critical and keen when it comes to choosing the right product for the family to use. As a parent, there are various sources when it comes to product reviews, one of which is the the Consumer Rankings blog; these resources give valuable information about a particular product. If you have little kids, you cannot just afford to buy anything that is on the grocery rack for the family; even if it’s as simple as buying a hair shampoo for your baby.

A first time mom would normally ask friends and families about finding the right hair shampoo for the baby. These people give advices based on their experiences, or you can go to Consumer-Rankings.com to get product information. You may also want to consider these helpful tips when it comes to choosing the perfect hair shampoo for babies:

• Baby’s skin is relatively thin and sensitive; find hair products which do not contain ingredients that can irritate the baby’s sensitive skin.

• Shampoo should be not containing any color, it should be clear and the fragrance should not be sharp too.

• It should be free of alcohol and soap and baby shampoo should be hypo-allergenic and must be dermatological tested to prevent irritation in baby’s scalp.

• It must be gentle, because suds would normally trickle in the eye area up to the mouth of the little ones.

• An important reminder to moms, the baby’s hair should be shampooed only once a week. You should use only a very tiny amount of shampoo for the baby’s hair and scalp.

In every product that moms purchase for their family, it is very important to always read the label and be informed about the product that you are about to give your family. It pays to read and ask in order to get helpful product information.

Yena and her New Poem

2011-06-22T12:32:00.002+08:00

Ako'y natutuwa
Malaki na ako
Pagsuot ng damit
ay kayang kaya ko
Ang mga laruan ko
ay nililigpit ko
Ang utos ni inay
ay susundin ko.
BOW

Yena June 2011 Stories

2011-06-18T18:05:00.000+08:00

First movie at the cinema

Husband and I brought Yena and her cousins to the cinema to watch Kung Fu Panda 2. It was their first time together so it was total riot. They were laughing so hard on every scene, the younger ones don’t like wearing their 3D glasses but Yena enjoyed it a lot. The bigger ones asked for another movie date after the film ended.

Yena and her cousins after watching Kung Fu Panda 2

It was a nice experience to watch with the kids, where everything seems so funny! It was hard to pacify them at a time when they want to eat, laugh and drink all at the same time while you would hear the crowd saying sssssshhhhh. Children can really be so loud at the cinema!

Summer class graduation

After a month of summer class, yena and her cousins graduated at the Day Care Center last Saturday. Aside from learning a lot of songs and poems, yena learned to love dancing even more.

When it’s their turn to dance at the stage, she didn’t hesitate to get up and dance with her cousin Eya.

I am just a proud mom when the teacher finally gave us her diploma! ^_^

On Childhood Crushes

I was so surprised when my niece Gy told me about Yena’s crush. While Gy was telling yena’s story about the little boy, my daughter Yena was smiling sheepishly beside her. I cannot understand how I felt about my 3 yr old daughter having a crush at this early!

So I talked to her that when the boy tried to hold her hands once again, she should tell him not to do it or else her Daddy will get mad. And having a crush at her age isn’t advised. Little girls should be busy about anything else except having a ‘crush’. I told her it is OK to have a crush when she’s old enough, maybe after ten years or so?!

I know she got what I meant coz every time her cousins would tease her of the ‘crush’ she would tell them to keep quiet or else be answerable to her daddy. ^^

First day of Kinder Class

We enrolled Yena and her cousin Yael for Nursery class but since they were only three students on Nursery the teacher decided to join them to the Kinder class. And that's her picture on the first day of her class.

Convenience of Filing Taxes Electronically

2011-06-10T21:30:00.001+08:00

We people usually embrace instant things as we always crave for convenience and comfort about just anything we do especially if it has something to do with our job. Only if we can finish things in just one click we would really probably do it in a manner that is as quick as possible so we can have more time to relax and we can avoid getting stress.

Just like us being an accountant, we maximize the use of computer to aid us accomplished our everyday reporting task. We make ourselves very much familiar about any of the properties of Microsoft excel to help us provide fast but accurate reports.

One of the hassles that we have as workers is our responsibility to pay taxes. At times we even need to fill up and submit a tax extension form manually and even personally submit it to government agency. Though I guess it is better this time than what we have before when everything was really manual in its sense. At least now we can do filing taxes electronically which does not even require personal appearance.

Maybe when my daughter boyeng grew up and get matured enough on this, probably the process would even get quicker and faster than ever.

Great Father’s Day Gift Ideas

2011-06-07T23:24:00.002+08:00

Father’s Day for Year 2011 is on June 19! Are you ready to surprise your father dearest? This day is a day of spoiling to the man who spoils us since we were kids. So what better way to give them aside from our hugs and kisses? Surprise them with fathers day presents according to their personality!

If the king of your house loves to read, it’s high time to splurge on the books he has wanted to have for so long. Or a copy of his favorite author would for sure bring out his cheerful smiles. If he’s into gardening, give him those gardening tools he eyes at the mall. If fishing brings him so much fun, accompany him to the nearest lake with your new set of fishing gear. Nothing would hurt for a new wine set or a new reading glass or a new coffee mug with a ‘best daddy’ written on it.

If you have been saving up for this day and would like to give him the pricey ones, get him a new gadget or new sports kit or a new getaway bag if he frequents traveling. These are gifts he would really treasure and use for a long time. And if you find yourself telling, I gave all that last fathers’ day, check out the unique fathers’ gift ideas. You would be thrilled to know there are still items he would for sure enjoy receiving over and over again.

Shopping for Kids Shoes

2011-06-07T23:19:00.002+08:00

It was only recently when my daughter and I spent some time at the mall looking for her school shoes. It’s no sweat to find a new pair, department stores offers them in all kinds and designs. But school shoes should be most importantly made of good quality materials, it should last for the whole school year at least.

So one important thing to consider is the materials used. Sometimes it is better to buy those expensive ones that use good materials like leather, as it will guarantee long term of use. But you know how kids are when they walk or run, they aren’t mindful of their shoes and one day you’ll see their shoes needed some repair. So it is also with proper care that these shoes will last. Though it can be expensive to buy shoes these days, there are online sites in which you can get childrens shoes at discounted prices but does not compromise quality. This is one of the many good deals in the internet!

If getting the size of your kids seems hard to match them online, there are samples for the age bracket of your child. These sizes are the usual normal size for a kids’ age, worry no more of delivery that came after months. Some boast of quick delivery and free returns. There are countless of designs you can choose from that would look perfect not only for your little girls, but also to your cute little boy. Only you need to arm your eyes with very good decision making skills if you’re shopping on a tight budget, it can be hard to look into the screen with all those fabulous little shoes that all seems to suit your child!

Choosing the Best Baby Christening Gifts

2011-06-07T23:18:00.001+08:00

I was 7 months pregnant when my officemate gave me a nice bracelet with color red Swarovski as a design. She said, that’s her gift for the baby girl that I will be delivering very soon. The thought that someone gave the baby a gift even before she came out of this world is ecstatic, more than the gift it’s the thought that touched me most.

Right after she was born, we see to it that my little baby girl should wear that bracelet. And she has been wearing it since then. She is three years old now. You see, jewelries are nice gifts as it not only has ‘monetary’ values but sentimental values as well. It can last for a lifetime!

There was a time when I would order Swarovski bracelets and give them as gifts to my nieces and goddaughters on their birthdays or christening. It isn’t hard getting them online, there are children’s jewellery sites you can check out. Selecting the design on jewelries isn’t as hard as shopping for clothes, you just have to know the recipients favorite color or birth stone and you’re off for a good buy.

For baby christening gift ideas for baby girls, I prefer handing them down cute little earrings with their birth stones in it. It sure would last until even after their toddler years. It’s also cute to give them bracelets of simple design. For a boy, a nice necklace with his initials would do. If you’re one of those shoppers who asked for discounts, check out special offers, you might see what you have been looking for but with a markdown price.

Potty Training Yena

2011-05-31T09:12:00.000+08:00

I was about to buy another set of diapers for Yena when Fedhz asked me about Yena’s potty training. Yena knows how to use the bathroom herself to poo or pee since she turned two years old but I see to it that she has diapers at night when she goes to sleep, I am so afraid of her getting wet at night. But it has been a months when she has been telling me that her other cousins aren’t using diapers at night anymore and she doesn’t like to wear one too. Plus she would always ask for the regular underwear. I think I miss the signs and forgot about the potty training. I should have head to her requests all this time.

Fedhz says that’s a sign. She is ready for a complete potty training lesson. So last night, I started our lesson by letting her pee before going to bed. I talked to her that it’s about time to say goodbye to diapers at nighttime and she cannot be anymore happier! We woke up this morning and she isn’t wet at all! Seems like she is really ready.

My mother says that when she takes an afternoon nap she doesn’t wet her bed too, she would actually wake up and take some time out in the bathroom to pee and come back to bed to continue her napping session. I guess I missed to remind her that. Tonight is another lesson and Yena is doing good on her potty training. It’s getting the best of both worlds – Yena is getting bigger and I get to save somehow from the cost of those pricey diapers!

Yena’s Going to School!

2011-05-20T14:35:00.003+08:00

My sister Aya brought Yena and her kids Eya and Yael for a summer class in a Day Care Center near our place. She said, yena cried the first time she went inside the room. But the next day she seemed to be enjoying the class.

So when Aya decided that her eldest daughter Eya will be enrolled this year, Yena and her cousin Yael would like to be enrolled too. Now the three kids will be going to school! Yay

Yena and yael rarely write. All they do with their notebook and pencil is that they scribble and doodle. But they both are eager to learn. They all love to sing and recite poems. I think the summer class encouraged them to study earlier. They enjoyed the one hour of fun every day.

One night, I was asked by my daughter Yena if I can send her to school. Afraid to break her heart, I asked permission the next day from my boss to take a half day leave. I surprised her and send her to school one fine afternoon. And I saw how much she loves to be in that class. They exercise, dance and sing. They draw. They do some arts and learn to listen to new stories. The one hour seems to pass away so fast. I know now why she loves to go to school.

Oh I wish I can be a work at home mom or just stay at home so I can send her to school every day. Now I just have to content myself for our night time bonding while coloring her books or reading her stories.

25 Manners Every Kid Should Know by Nine

2011-05-11T08:45:00.000+08:00

Manner #1
When asking for something, say "Please."

Manner #2
When receiving something, say "Thank you."

Manner #3
Do not interrupt grown-ups who are speaking with each other unless there is an emergency. They will notice you and respond when they are finished talking.

Manner #4
If you do need to get somebody's attention right away, the phrase "excuse me" is the most polite way for you to enter the conversation.

Manner #5
When you have any doubt about doing something, ask permission first. It can save you from many hours of grief later.

Manner #6
The world is not interested in what you dislike. Keep negative opinions to yourself, or between you and your friends, and out of earshot of adults.

Manner #7
Do not comment on other people's physical characteristics unless, of course, it's to compliment them, which is always welcome.

Manner #8
When people ask you how you are, tell them and then ask them how they are.

Manner #9
When you have spent time at your friend's house, remember to thank his or her parents for having you over and for the good time you had.

Manner #10
Knock on closed doors -- and wait to see if there's a response -- before entering.

Manner #11
When you make a phone call, introduce yourself first and then ask if you can speak with the person you are calling.

Manner #12
Be appreciative and say "thank you" for any gift you receive. In the age of e-mail, a handwritten thank-you note can have a powerful effect.

Manner #13
Never use foul language in front of adults. Grown-ups already know all those words, and they find them boring and unpleasant.

Manner #14
Don't call people mean names.

Manner #15
Do not make fun of anyone for any reason. Teasing shows others you are weak, and ganging up on someone else is cruel.

Manner #16
Even if a play or an assembly is boring, sit through it quietly and pretend that you are interested. The performers and presenters are doing their best.

Manner #17
If you bump into somebody, immediately say "Excuse me."

Manner #18
Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze, and don't pick your nose in public.

Manner #19
As you walk through a door, look to see if you can hold it open for someone else.

Manner #20
If you come across a parent, a teacher, or a neighbor working on something, ask if you can help. If they say "yes," do so -- you may learn something new.

Manner #21
When an adult asks you for a favor, do it without grumbling and with a smile.

Manner #22
When someone helps you, say "thank you." That person will likely want to help you again. This is especially true with teachers!

Manner #23
Use eating utensils properly. If you are unsure how to do so, ask your parents to teach you or watch what adults do.

Manner #24
Keep a napkin on your lap; use it to wipe your mouth when necessary.

Manner #25
Don't reach for things at the table; ask to have them passed.

Source

Shopping for Baby Clothes

2011-05-05T11:38:00.002+08:00

When it’s time to shop for designer baby clothes, and you seem to be running out of time or just tired you wish your finger can do the job for you, worry no more. Tea Collection has lots of designer clothes from girls to boys on different styles that will definitely shoot your budget and soothe your sense of style.

It isn’t hard to shop around online for baby girls outfits, each outfit has the ideal age for the baby that ranges from birth to 24mos. Rest assured that all the outfits are made out of the very comfortable materials that brings a relaxed feeling to your little one.

There are mix and match sets for the baby boy too! You just have to know what color fits your little one. But overall the designs are uber delightful to the eyes. Browsing at the site’s directory would never let your cart empty.

They not only sell designer baby clothes, they also have fashionable clothes for women. The site also offers clothes for sale and tea collection that can be given as gifts to every child on your list, that’s if you want to play Santa all year round!

What I like about the site more is their vintage theme and their fashion sense that makes you seem to travel the world in style. They have a maritime fashion of a costa brava summer for example that has nice tunics and summer dresses. They are all a love.

If you find yourself shopping for more and your shopping cart reach to $150 worry not about the shipping costs, coz you’ll be entitled for free shipping and $7 on everything else! That’s one sweet deal, right?!

So if you’re one to shop for your newborn or would like to give some designer baby clothes to some friends, head on to Tea Collection now. I am sure you’ll find a very enjoyable stay.

Kids Say the Darndest Things

2011-05-03T14:17:00.001+08:00

I remember watching that show a couple of years back and I would usually end up having stomachache – it is so funny to hear how children talk sometimes. Their wit could get you off guard.

That’s how I am with my three year old daughter Yena every single day. I cannot imagine how or where she gets her idea on things. She tells me about her desire of being a doctor one night, and the other day she acted like she’s doing some blood pressure or getting a blood sample on my arms acting like a little scrub wearing some nursing uniforms.

She got the idea last Holy Week when we rushed her to the hospital since she has on and off fever. Husband and I were worried that she might have dengue or measles. That little girl, who is so scared of needles, is all the more scared of doctors now. So to see her imitate the nurse who got her CBC is kind of relief.

It is definitely a joy to see her play like a little nurse. Who knows she will become one of those fashionable scrubs I only see at http://www.blueskyscrubs.com. That’s if she really overcome the fear of blood and needles.

Big Sister is Excited

2011-05-02T15:31:00.001+08:00

I am so proud of my daughter Yena. ON the night we told her that she will be a big sister soon, she has transformed into a loving daughter all the more. Nightly she would kiss my tummy and says I love you baby. She doesn’t want to be called ‘baby’ anymore. She loves to be called Ate.

Last night, she asked me how she came out of this world. I told her the narration with a comic twist and she was laughing all the time. It is easier to tell her how I brought her out into this world cause she sees my stitches in my tummy. I told her the doctor got her out directly from my tummy and since I was asleep, the doctor handed her to her daddy. She was all smiling with that little narration.

The problem lies on where the baby would sleep. She doesn’t want to give her space and said I can sleep beside the baby just as long as she sleeps on her area (at the top of the pull out bed.) sighs. I wish we can have a bigger house soon so I can put up a nursery for baby number 2, another room for the big sister and another room for husband and i.

Oh, well I guess the right time will come for that. Wink.

Labels – The Solution to Keeping your Child from Losing Their Things

2011-03-19T09:35:00.001+08:00

For many parents, a never-ending source of aggravation is the fact that their children’s belongings seem to be constantly disappearing, sometimes only days after being purchased. Mom will pack up her kids’ lunches, get them dressed, and send them off on the school bus in the morning, only to have them return home in the afternoon missing sweatshirts, backpacks, water bottles, books, or even their shoes! Alternatively, the kids might make it home with everything seemingly intact, however upon closer inspection it becomes evident that they’re wearing another child’s sweatshirt and reading from another child’s Math book.

A forgetful child isn’t exactly a rare occurrence. In fact, between cell phones, video games, the internet, and every other distraction that kids face as they are growing up in our modern age, it’s a miracle that they manage to remember anything at all. Thankfully, there are a few ways to combat the phenomenon of disappearing children’s belongings, and labels are one the best weapons available to you. Amazingly enough, adding name labels to t-shirts, books, water bottles, or anything else that can easily be misplaced, will dramatically reduce the amount of things that get lost in the day to day grind.

For clothing, including t-shirts, sweatshirts, scarves, hats, or jackets, iron-on clothing labels are the preferred method of labeling a child’s things. For most iron-on labels, the process of attaching the labels is pretty easy, and requires just a few basic steps. For starters, the iron needs to be very hot, and should be set on dry (no steam). Once the iron is hot, simply place the label where you want it to be attached, place a thin pressing cloth of handkerchief over the top of it, and then apply the iron to it for at least 15 seconds. After removing the iron, simply test a few of the corners by trying to lift them with your fingernails. If the corners stay put, you’re good to go. If not, try getting the iron to a hotter setting, or apply pressure on the label for additional time.

For items like water bottles, shoes, mugs, or anything that might get wet or need to go through a dishwasher, stick-on waterproof labels are a great solution. A pair of new shoes of your daughter’s is much less likely to walk away from the day care center if theirs is a bright label visible on the heel of the insole.

Most children’s items go missing not because of any malicious intent, but simply because kids can be absent-minded, and they get stuff mixed-up. Having labels on your child’s belongings is an easy way to help their teachers, other parents, day care supervisors, camp counselors, and anyone else who may watch over them in the course of a day, to ensure that your child gets home with the same belongings they left the house with in the morning.

Purple Tinkerbell

2011-03-18T07:50:00.001+08:00

My daughter Yena wearing her puple tinkerbell costume.

This was what she wore on Sati's first birthday, that's her and Yz below..

And here's another purple dress, a gift from her Ninang Umma

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Prepare Like Little Girl Scouts Do!

2011-03-17T14:36:00.001+08:00

Remember when you were girl scouts or boy scouts? I remember well that during those times we were taught to be always ready, to be prepared come what may and to learn to cope whatever happens.

There has been news about earthquakes and tsunamis to different parts of the world. But we don’t have to panic, Mother Nature takes it course no one knows when. And that’s one of the reasons why there are BurialInsurance.org or any other insurance on the rise. All we need to do is to have an insurance to back us up anytime. We don’t want to leave our loved ones with nothing, there’s Medigap Insurance that you can lean on. You have a choice to get a Medigap Plan A, it all depends on your preferences.

Sometimes talking about insurance is so taboo that people look the other way when this topic is brought up. But death is inevitable. Accidents can happen all the time. We don’t know when Mother Nature takes it angry fury once more. And certainly, we have no control of the things that will happen around us. It is always better to be prepared than sorry. Always in all ways we can – Prepare like Scouts do!

Birthday Party Preparation for Toddlers

2011-03-16T10:59:00.001+08:00

Planning and preparing for Birthday parties for toddlers isn’t hard to organize these days. What with thousands of ideas the internet offers. From invitation, banners, food, reception, games, souvenirs and the likes – they are all can be found with just a click away.

Good thing about planning months ahead is that you can get promotional items together with your souvenirs. It isn’t too early for toddlers to get hold of GOPromos personalized notepads – they want to learn to write even at an early age so having that one for a souvenir will make their day. You can hand it together with some Big Click Stic pens. For sure the kids will have a blast to bring home those loots!

You can order for banners or invitations online, there are a wide variety of them from cheapest to the most expensive ones. There are a lot of game ideas in the internet too – only you need to bear in mind the age bracket of your guests. Do not worry about food, kids on children’s parties tend to eat on smaller amount they are more excited on the prizes and the games. So prepare for a big reception area, a lot of games and exciting prizes!

You don’t have to spend a lot. Birthday parties for kids don’t have to be expensive. Kids are very easy to please. There are a lot of ways to enjoy a toddler’s birthday party even at home with only hotdogs and spaghettis – just don’t forget their loot bags!

MM: Green

2011-03-11T01:00:00.000+08:00

It's good to be back at Mommy Moments! Here's my share for the color Green this week...

My daughter Yena on her seat at the airplane. Wearing her green jacket from her Ninang Umma.

Bonding moments with her Lola, my mother, at the NAIA lounge.

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Faith, Love and Charity

2011-03-10T21:13:00.004+08:00

Dearest my Yena,

Someday soon you will grow up, you'll face a lot of challenges, gain friends, finish education, marry your prince charming and build a family. I want you to know that for all the things that you’ll do, put God first. Do the rights things for the right reasons. Always.

If you can choose your friends, please stay with those that will bring your closer to God. Be careful in making decisions, if you’re lost use your conscience, mind and most of all pray. I am not prayerful my baby but I have God, i always talk to my God. And you have Him too, do not forget to talk to Him. He is always there for you.

Do not worry about anything. Everything will be lost, all will be gone someday. What’s important is your relationship with the Lord. Try your best to build a rich relationship with your family and friends.

If someday you become successful in life, be a blessing to others. Be helpful. Donate to charity. Help others in many ways you can. Never enter politics. Help and do not ask for anything in return.

If someday you will experience hardships, do not lose hope, most of all do not lose your Faith. Everything happens for a reason. Be helpful, still. Helping doesn’t only mean financially. You can give a piece of yourself – you can always give encouragement, a shoulder to cry on, a genuine laugh, a pat on the back and a smile from the heart.

Please bear this in my mind, I always try to follow this but you know your mommy, often times I fail. But this is my favorite. It says all I want to say to you.

"People are often unreasonable and self-centered.
FORGIVE THEM ANYWAY.
If you are kind, people may accuse you of ulterior motives.
BE KIND ANYWAY.
If you are honest, people may cheat you.
BE HONEST ANYWAY.
If you find happiness, people may be jealous.
BE HAPPY ANYWAY.
The good you do today may be forgotten tomorrow.
DO GOOD ANYWAY.
Give the world the best you have, and it may never be enough.
GIVE YOUR BEST ANYWAY.
For you see, in the end, it is between you and God.
IT NEVER WAS BETWEEN YOU AND THEM ANYWAY."

You know why I am telling you this, not because your mom is righteous, all the things I said are easy to say but are real hard to follow. The world teaches the people now to work hard, be successful, enjoy all the luxuries and create lots of money BUT it also brings the people away from God.

I know you will understand all these things someday. Your mommy loves you so much to see you lost in the world who forgets that above all there is God. Please have faith, charity and love in your heart.

I love you baby! I love you til eternity.
Mommy

Talking about Rings

2011-03-05T14:04:00.003+08:00

Wedding has never been out of season. It is not just brought about by chances. I guess it is but a product of destiny. I remember my one and only beautiful baby girl has been a flower girl several times in some of my friends’ weddings. One of the most attention-catching stuff in a wedding is those ornaments and jewelries of the couples.

I would just like to suggest a dependable source o f wedding accessories. It is an online store named 25karats.com. They have new wedding bands collection for this year 2011. There are various types of wedding bands available such as those plain, hand-made, designer types, fancy, square, Celtics and religious types. There are lots of choices for you to pick. Each wedding band is full customizable as to its width, thickness, metal type and color.

They also offer diamond rings for men and women, eternity rings, anniversary rings, antique wedding rings and a lot more.

You can never go wrong as each of their products is made out of high quality metals and diamonds. Distinct from others they do provide the corresponding weight of their products. They are really after about customer satisfaction so they want to give their clients the finest class.

I just wish that when my Yena reach the right age of marrying, his man would be courageous enough to give her one of the engagement rings from 25karats.com.

Just another Wish

2011-02-12T16:47:00.000+08:00

I have always been regarded by my friends as over-acting but sometimes they just misinterpret things and confuse it by my artistic personality. I am undeniably emotional but I am also simply sentimental and sometimes overly creative.

More often than not, I always want out things inspired by my own preference or sometimes I want them applied of something with personal touch. Especially at home, I had our wall painted with my favorite color of purple. Lately, I am thinking of buying a lighting fixture. I want art deco lighting or some sort of pendant lighting over our dining table. I also would like to have outdoor wall sconces which are a kind of wrought iron lighting to be placed just beside our main door. And of course, just like what I am usually seeing from my friend’s houses I also want those type of fans for our living room, just like the traditional lighting, not just to illuminate the house but also to add some sense of atmosphere.

There really are a lot of things I am dreaming and imagining for our humble abode. With all of these fixed expenses lined-up regularly, it is but unfeasible these days. Little by little, I guess we will be able to get hold of our everyday wishes.

The Housing Plans

2011-02-10T10:08:00.001+08:00

Yobib and I have been stretching our bones at work to give our little Yena a good future. Not only that, we have been planning to take a big step by having our own house. We can probably start with two bedrooms, one for me and one for Yena. She will have to sleep with us though for the meantime. Then, once she graduates from being a kid, then, will have her own room.

We are living our lives separate from our parents, however, moving out into a bigger house is definitely a dream come true. We want to have a space depending on its function --- there is room for cooking and dining, a room for recreation and a room for receiving visitors, like that.

One big consideration is the mortgage. I wish we are veterans so we can apply for the VA Streamline Refinance. To refinance VA home loans means to lower the interest rates of existing loan and reduce the monthly payments. I do not have to worry of paying burdensome dues since it works for me. The application is never a lengthy process, quick and no paperwork to be done. Remember, the long investigations done by other financing organizations? Oh, with this one, no income or employment verifications, just be sure, your existing mortgage is timely paid. You can also miss the payment for up to two months!

Well, since we are not a veteran, why don’t I just ask Yobib to come and join the military forces? I heard there is Military VA Loan, well, few decades from now, we can actually file for loan. What do you think? Good idea, eh?

Prepare like Girl Scouts do!

2011-02-02T12:50:00.001+08:00

We are all bound to stop to a single destination in this life and we do not know how to get there, even got no idea on where and when would it be – that’s when we finally stop breathing. Looking at real life situation, we are allotting so much of our budget on various expenses that would make life easier and more comfortable. Some of us even fail to prepare for our very end something which has to do on some sort of final expense insurance.

Just a no-nonsense thing, it would be practical enough to avail something for elder loved ones or that of burial insurance for seniors. Anyway, it is not bad to be ready and equipped with the things needed when the time comes. This may not necessarily reduce the emotional turmoil and agony but would at least lessen the hassle expected to be brought about by the situation.

As what the Insurance Information Institute offers, perhaps the most important thing is for people to acquire sufficient understanding for that matter. As I find death topics unmentionable, there is nothing much better to do than be prepared. We do not hold our time but we can still do something about it when we’re still alive.

Harry Potter and Christmas on Online Universities

2011-02-02T08:48:00.003+08:00

Source:

Online
Universities

Source:Online
Colleges

Nurses on my Thoughts

2011-01-26T18:41:00.001+08:00

Recently, I got to visit the hospital to accompany Nanay with her check-up. It was while we were waiting for the results when I started to take a look at a nurse in scrubs. What played inside my mind at that time was primarily, how well she managed to assist a line of patients with patience which I do not think I can do so. Three at a time may do so, but, more than that will surely stress me out. Then, her printed scrubs caught my attention. I was thinking how comfortable she moved, I can never just run or bend over with so much ease like she did. Then, I realized, that was the purpose the scrubs for women were made --- to freely extend one’s extremities.

But as I gazed upon a group of nurses walking before me, one observation struck me and made me smile. Even in the medical world, there is fashion. Long long before, I did see interns on white, blue or green scrubs. Anything stripes would appear like pajamas. But now, designs are all over --- checkered, stripes or any prints. The shades also improved that green does not mean moss green, it can be apple green or light green. The accessories also come in styles that go with the scrubs. Good thing that hospitals can have various options to dress their stationed nurses with distinction depending on how they would like them to carry the name of the hospital.

My thoughts wandered so long until my Nanay’s name was called in by the nurse who beamed a smile with me.

The Gifts

2011-01-19T08:45:00.001+08:00

Yena loves surprises! It's a joy to see her antics when surprised. She would place her hands on her mouth and her eyes would be glittering with joy. She would laugh while opening her gifts!

So last friday i hurried home after the meetup with some blogging friends, am so excited to see her face when i tell her - you got some birthday gifts on the eve of your birthday, baby! And she smiled modestly while opening them! ^_^

stickers and blackboard from tita fedhz of fedhz.com - she can't stop writing and showing me she knows how to do CIRCLES ^_^

a gift from tita mae of Inmypsyche.com - she can't get enough of her barbie! :)

And 3 yummy packs of fedhz famous polvoron!!! yummm

And her favorite gift on the day of her birthday is a green stuffed toy we named Menggay, a gift from her Tita Yalyn, husband's cousin.

Yena is Three!

2011-01-18T12:54:00.004+08:00

We have no plans of holding a children’s party for yena’s 3rd birthday since her 2nd birthday was spent with her cousins – eating their favorite cake and spaghetti. But 3 days before her birthday husband and I thought that maybe we can surprise her a bit. So we planned to have an elmo and friends party at my MIL’s house and requested the kids to wear red.

My husband and relatives made everything possible and that we only have to appear at the party by 4pm. To our surprise, we saw not only relatives and friends but a lot of kids we rarely know, hihihi. And they all wore red!! ^_^

Good thing I prepared a lot of loot bags if not, they will go home empty handed, hihihi. But yeah, aside from the parlor games, there’s an impromptu dance competition between husband’s nephews and a batch of kids. IT was so much fun seeing all the kids enjoy and my daughter very happy. She was so surprised with the whole celebration and she really looks so happy!

Next year, i shall look for a new venue and prepare a bit more. The look on yena's surprised face is enough to help me get by until i grow old. Lovely. Priceless.

Indeed a very memorable party. Will post pictures soon!

Bringing your Business to a New Heights

2011-01-02T23:32:00.002+08:00

Just like giving your new born baby a name – one thing to consider in opening a company of your own is a NAME. The name must be catchy and unique – preferably the name must be short at least – it is understandable that longer names aren’t catchy and are sometimes hard to remember. The name most especially should also be relevant to the business itself.

Once settled, the business should undergo the best marketing strategy, should be prepared to penetrate the market and deliver the best from competition. Every step needs to be polished, the business is like an infant that needs to be nurtured from the first day of birth until it matures.

And one of the best strategies that could help the business be known to the market quickly is the use of business cards. There are lots of ways to be known, from having your business name displayed to visible areas on a crowded place, in television, radio or spreadsheets and most especially – online. There’s no denying that the online media has proven to be very effective in contributing to one’s business success. Every thing now is worked online and a business that’s visible online means only one thing – it’s popular! And popular sites in the internet gather countless visitors in a day – that can turn into loyal clients if you give them the service they need. Your business needs to meet multimedia, and they should work hand and hand.

Being known in the market means that the business is growing and is making its way up to success!

Happy Birthday Mommy Umma!

2010-12-24T19:36:00.001+08:00

Here's your little yena and her cousins singing you a very happy birthday mare ko! Hope you have a blast!

Happy Happy Birthday Mommy Umma...
from all of us here! mwahnesss

The song ending says: Happy Birthday to you! Walang Handa! Ang manok nakawala! ^_^

MM: Christmas Tree

2010-12-10T00:00:00.002+08:00

My daughter Yena and i posing behind a HUGE Christmas Tree at husband's office. This was taken last year! ^_^

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Shopping for your Baby Online

2010-11-11T07:58:00.001+08:00

There rarely is a situation that you can get exactly what you want when you go to a store. The design or style that you wanted may not be there, or if it is, it may not be the size you want. However, by ordering online you can get the size, style, design, and everything else you want and all without having to leave your home. And if you are buying for your baby you should make sure that the Security Blankets , Hooded Towels, or Trumpette Socks you want to buy them will fit the decor of their room. Another great advantage of buying online is that you can buy in bulk. Parents are always looking for the lost socks, trying to re-sow the security blankets, and keep the towels clean. Well now you don’t have to because you can buy all of those and more in large quantities so whenever something is lost, damaged, or too dirty to keep around your baby, you can replace it without anyone noticing.

Another great thing about ordering online is that you can now actually design and personalize your things. You can select colorful characters, decorations, themes that will match their room, and even put their name on it. As they get older and start interacting with other young children you do not want to get into a debate over whose trumpette baby socks those are, or whose hooded towels or blankets those are, because they all often will look the same. If you child has a specific design or even their own name on it then you are definitely going to know exactly who it belongs too.

Mall of Asia Playground

2010-11-08T13:09:00.000+08:00

Yena enjoyed the playground of Mall of Asia last friday night. Now she has been asking me to bring her back to play at that area with her cousins! Will definitely bring her back and see her priceless smiles once again, hmmm maybe after our Bohol Trip this month.

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Yellow Slide

2010-11-01T10:53:00.000+08:00

My daughter posing at a YELLOW slide

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Yena and the Gang: Before and After

2010-10-28T22:52:00.001+08:00

Missed a lot of fridays at Mommy Moments. But am back now. Here's some of the photos of my little family way back 2008, when yena was just a months old. And our most recent pictures.

Yena afraid of the water. Picture taken April 2008

Yena LOVES the water. Picture taken October 2010

First Turn Over. May 2008

Turning Over seems like FOREVER. October 2010

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She Loves the Pool!

2010-10-26T14:35:00.001+08:00

Husband and i decided to have a pool party for our 3rd wedding anniversary for Yena. She loves the water so much and she would be happiest when she swims and plays with her cousins at the pool.

The whole day of sunday was spent at Medz Resort. It was a blast!

Everybody had fun! We literally opened the resort at 8am, the kids were very excited. It rained in the afternoon but after an hour we got back to dipping til 5pm...

I wouldn't mind another party if i will see their priceless faces again!

Win 3 VIP Tickets to The Little Big Club Concert!

2010-10-12T09:47:00.002+08:00

Make or Break is hosting another contest and this time 3 VIP tickets will be given away every two weeks!!

Promo Period:

Week 1 – Oct. 11, 2010 to Oct 24, 2010
(1 winner of 3 VIP Sides Complimentary Tickets)
Week 2 – Oct. 25, 2010 to Nov 7, 2010
(1 winner of 3 VIP Sides Complimentary Tickets)
Week 3 – Nov. 8, 2010 to Nov 21, 2010
(1 winner of 3 VIP Sides Complimentary Tickets)
Week 4 – Nov. 22, 2010 to Dec. 5, 2010
(1 winner of 3 VIP Sides Complimentary Tickets)
Week 5 – Dec. 6, 2010 to Dec. 13, 2010
(1 winner of 3 VIP Sides Complimentary Tickets)

Anyone can join the contest (except Relatives of the producers, organizers and promoters). But guys you have to be 18 years of age and A Filipino Citizen.

How to have that tickets? How To Join? CLICK HERE for the full mechanics

It wouldn't hurt to Like at Make or Break on Facebook :)

My Tummy is Ready for a Baby!

2010-10-11T22:07:00.001+08:00

Yena displays eagerness to learn. She enjoys being surrounded by the charts and pictures posted on our walls. Helpful for a very young tot, that is why, we are planning to buy her another set of alphabet letters for kids rooms. This one will surely capture her attention to bring familiarity on the spelling of her name. Of course, I will do anything to lessen the teaching efforts I need to give her. Hehe..

But you know what, I am ready to have another Yena in our family. It's been a couple years and I am not getting any younger. I think Yena is ready too, though, she is already used to be the apple of our eyes.. 100 percent! I am sure she looks forward to having a playmate aside from her cousins. How sweet, someone who will call her ate.

It will never be as difficult as the first time I carried a baby since all Yena’s accessories and stuffs and Bumbleride Strollers were kept and could be passed to her little sibling. However, now, I would like to have the Caden Lane Crib Bedding for a change. I believe I gave away the beddings to another friend. Hmmm.. I hope hubby is also excited as Yena and I about it. What do you think?

Child Friendly Beach Resort in Bohol

2010-10-07T00:53:00.003+08:00

Bohol is one of the best vacation places in the Philippines. It is famous for different tourist spots that lurk in its province. Bohol has a rich history and beautiful white sand beaches.

Places to Visit:

Chocolate Hills. This is the famous formation of limestone which is the most visited spot in Carmen, Bohol. They look like little chocolate mountains when you are on top of one of them.

Loboc River. There are river cruises and floating restaurants that offer good sea dishes and while enjoying your lunch, a band plays Bisaya songs, welcoming you to their little paradise.

Panglao Island. The famous Panglao Island has white sand beaches that travellers can enjoy under the sun.

view from Whites and Greens Beach Resort

Where to stay:

If you don't have a family or friend in Bohol where you can stay, White and Greens Beach Resort is a place to stay. Accommodation and amenities varies from different hotels in Bohol, but White and Greens Beach Resort have many to mention. Not all beach hotels offer free accommodations for children under ten years old, so this beach resort is a good choice if you have children coming with you. You will probably like to stay here and be at ease because they have an In-House Physician too.

My Family with Max's Mascot Chikkie

2010-10-04T13:44:00.000+08:00

My family in matching green outfits and my boss daughter Francine and Chickkie, Max's official Mascot

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Yena’s First Halloween Party

2010-09-30T14:35:00.000+08:00

It’s the first time for my office to hold a Halloween party for their employee’s children. The very excited me, browsed the net after signing up for my daughter yena. She has to experience this fun party – I wasn’t able to experience this when I was a kid.

So here’s what I got from searching online on her possible Halloween costume..

this is the cutest for her, me thinks! but this fits a baby not a tot :( yay

so might as well choose this one..

or this one!!! yay!

The only problem is that purchasing a halloween costume online means added shipping costs plus I have a problem with yena’s size. I guess I shall look for some Halloween outfits at divisoria instead …

Spend More Time with Your Kids

2010-09-29T13:34:00.001+08:00

While it may seem like your little ones will be tiny forever, they'll actually be grown before you know it. Many parents become so bogged down with day-to-day life and just getting by that they don't spend the amount of quality time that they would like with their children. Before they know it, another birthday has come and gone.

Spending more time with your kids can be easier said than done. After all, the bills have to be paid, the meals have to be cooked, and the clothes have to be washed. However, little time savers can add up to several extra hours each week.

Online shopping can save a lot of time. If you're a careful shopper, you can find better bargains than in some brick and mortar stores, plus have your items delivered right to your door. Be careful about shipping costs, though. Sometimes, the amount charged to ship an item can outweigh any savings. Of course, some things like buying car insurance online and banking online can save both time and money with no shipping fees.

In addition to saving time by simplifying meal plans, you can have your children help you prepare lunch or dinner. Believe it or not, most kids love to help out in the kitchen. They get to spend more time with mom and dad while indulging in a little creativity. Allowing your children to get involved with their food choices is also a great way to teach healthy eating habits that will last a lifetime.

If you spend every waking moment trying to keep a spotless house, relax a little bit. Some moms are surprised when their child adds “cleaning” to their list of mom's favorite activities when they make their first Mother's Day card in school. Sometimes, clean enough is ok.

Ingredients to Make Your Own Vacation: Pool Supplies, Fruity Drinks and Fun

2010-09-29T13:33:00.002+08:00

One of the greatest parts of summertime is the prospect of a family vacation. A vacation is an instant form of relaxation. Warm sand, drinks with tiny umbrellas and dinner out are all stress relieving. Unfortunately, summertime does not always equal a vacation on the beach. In these cases, there are things you can do to create your own relaxing environment at home.

The first thing to do is take all plans off the schedule that do not involve fun. If the thought of doing something makes you sigh and roll your eyes, or brings you a sense of dread, take it off your list right now. It should not be scheduled for your time off. Think of what is keeping you from going on an island vacation. For many people, this will be a lack of funds. Guess what? You can have all of the fun at home for a fraction of the cost. Now think of the things you will miss. The goal is to recreate your dream vacation at home.

You are going to need some pool supplies. Even if all you can afford is a soft-side pool, that's okay. Purchase it, set it up and add the water treatments. Now, you need to get some sand. You can pick up play sand for a couple dollars a bag at the hardware store; grab a tarp while you are there. Lay down your tarp near the pool and dump the sand on it. One day in the sun and it will be nice and toasty. Next, make sure you are well stocked on fruit, ice, juice and—for those over 21—adult beverages if you so desire. When all of this is set up, you are nearly ready for vacation to begin. Turn on some music, grab a great beach read and go relax!

Snack Time!

2010-09-24T00:48:00.001+08:00

My daughter eats a lot. In fact, after meal time, give her 3o minutes and she'll go to the fridge looking for some food to binge on. So i always stock up on the snacks she loves - as much as id like to write them all here i guess the list would be endless. She eats almost anything like her dad!

Yena and her favorite Koko Krunch

One perfect example of our night time conversation goes like this. After dinner,

Yena: mommy can i have some juice or iced tea?
Me: of course you can. but drink water first.

After 15 minutes

Yena: mommy can i have some jelly ace? or do we still have hot dogs? sausage? pancit canton?
Me: no more (just teasing her)
Yena: can i have koko krunch instead?
Me: no, i know you're full
Yena: you said i can still eat! pleaseeeee

and that conversation will go on until she goes to bed.. if she didn't get enough she would again beg for milk!! ^_^

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Does Everybody Have a Handbag Line?

2010-09-23T12:16:00.003+08:00

It is lovely that there are such great things in life as designer bags. Gucci, Versace and some other high-end Italian designers (as well as designers from all over the world) have given the world many beautiful, wonderful articles of personal style, in which we can carry around little things. Your handbag says a lot about you, after all. But it can get a little bit on the ridiculous side, when it seems like everybody who ever did anything of any note has their own line of handbags. Not that there has ever been a bad reason to create a new fashion accessory, but it can get a little silly.

A few years ago, Monica Lewinsky came out with a handbag line. She is famous (or maybe infamous) for kind of having sex with former President Clinton. Either they did or they didn't, who knows? But that proved to be her reasoning behind wanting people to have her kind of handbags. Then there was Paris Hilton's line of handbags, which emphasize her style of... what? The fact that she actually trademarked the phrase "that's hot," and expected the world to think that she is somehow the Queen Mother of hotness and style? What did she ever even do to get famous, any way?

Now we have Ivanka Trump and her line of handbags. Am I just out of the loop, or is a bit strange that a woman whose main claim to fame is that her father is a highly successful real estate investor should have her own line of anything fashion related? I have to admit that I'm torn. On the one hand, a girl can never have too many handbags (and my daughter is going to have her fair share, for sure). But on the other hand, what qualifies somebody to have her or his own line? Is just being famous enough?

Posing with Garfield!

2010-09-21T11:25:00.000+08:00

Yena and her cousins with Garfield

My share on

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Yena and her Little Yellow Dress

2010-09-13T07:57:00.001+08:00

This picture was taken a few sundays ago. The excited little girl woke up early when i told her that she would wear her little yellow dress from her granny mamato (husband's mom) and could bring in the church her new umbrella from her granny nanay (my mom).

Yes, she was wearing her nike rubber shoes from her tita clang - that's her sole choice ^_^. That particular sunday she doesn't want her white shoes or sandals. I think it looks like spice girls fashion style or something. hihihi

Yena wearing her yellow little dress, a gift from her granny

My share on Mellow Yellow Monday. Click the badge to see other yellow entries...

Wacky Yena!

2010-09-09T20:00:00.000+08:00

Don't frown! You never know who is falling in love with your smile! ^_^

My share on Mommy Moments this friday. Click the badge to join and see other wacky entries...

Mellow Yellow Monday: Yellow Flower

2010-09-06T10:50:00.002+08:00

Yellow Flower beside my FIL's grave

Playing Time with Kids

2010-09-05T18:21:00.000+08:00

Playing with children is never tiring, it is always fun. Fun as winning in top online casinos with real money. It is like ringing a bell when the kids giggle as they enjoy tickle-me do’s. How cute they are as they climb to their daddy to hug him. It is a jackpot with online roulette money when they found you in one of the series of hide and seek --- surely, you see victory in their eyes. How fast they run and loud they shout in joy when you chase them in a round table, intentionally leaving a few paces before them to ensure that you won’t reach them.

Indeed, time must be spent with these tots to bring happiness inside the house. More importantly, these moments create the sense of belongingness in the family and make them feel that they are accepted. With the little treats of family bonding, they wear a security blanket. They feel assured that they have someone to rely on and that is their mom and dad. Of course, you will rather not take the chance of winning online slots money than to forgo the memorable recreations with the little angels --- these are inevitably priceless.

Moving with Kids

2010-09-04T22:53:00.000+08:00

After a couple of years of marriage, you and your spouse have now little angels running around the house. You already acquired a bigger shelter to stay in and decided to leave your rented double room space. It is this time that the children can enjoy their own room with designs they always wanting to have.

Before you relocate, go over your things and you might want to give away some of these that you surely won’t use anymore. Ask your kids as there are toys that they no longer play. Have a box to house these stuffs for donation. You will be surprised how much you will reduce the things you will transport.

One big challenge would be how to pack and transfer all your things to your new place. Of course, the best thing is to leave everything to professionals who give moving services. Professional movers are equipped with enough facilities to keep your things in tact and under care while they are being transported. If you are moving to San Francisco or to Fresno or to any city in the US, settle your doubts and keep in touch with the nearest movers in Fresno or movers in San Francisco. Just do not forget to check the bill of lading before the truck leaves to ensure you have all the things kept inside.

So, enjoy and happy moving!

Pamana

2010-09-03T08:22:00.002+08:00

Dear Yena,

You know why daddy and mommy are trying so hard to be good citizens of this world? Because what we are and what we do would greatly affect you. Our name is the only legacy we will leave you on this earth and I hope that name will be remembered as someone not of greatness but somehow dignified. That when you grow old and someone would ask you – who are your parents? You would say our name and the person you are talking to would exclaim – you have fine parents who love you so much.

We don’t have much but we have LOVE. And because I love you so much I have another gift for you ---this blog. I hope that by the time you grow older you can get to read how much mommy goes gaga over your tricks and milestones. I don’t ask you to be a blogger too but please update this blog somehow ^_^

My share on Mommy Moments with the theme PAMANA (this I give to you!)

Everything is Yellow, Almost!

2010-08-30T08:37:00.000+08:00

My daughter Yena wearing yellow on a yellow-gold motif buffet table on my good friend kat's wedding.

Yena on Gadget and Toys

2010-08-26T23:08:00.001+08:00

Yena has one favorite gadget, and i guess i have shared about that countless times already. Meet her portable dvd, she called Laplap. It has been her favorite buddy nightly since the day we bought it last March. She knows now how to operate laplap. Good thing is that it has auto play function - so all she does is to open it, change the disk and it plays automatically.

Yena and her portable dvd, Laplap

My share on Mommy Moments this friday. Click the badge to join and see other entries..

Yellow Dora Slippers

2010-08-23T08:40:00.000+08:00

Brought Yena and her cousins at the mall yesterday for some bonding time. They bond while i shop (a bit!) Yena's havaiinas slippers from her Tita Clang was already torn so off to the department store i went to get a new pair..

And this is her new slippers, i failed measuring her size, this one is kinda small for her. Yena has big feet!!! yay

My share on Mellow Yellow Monday. Click the badge to join and see other yellow entries.. See you!

MM: Kids and Movies

2010-08-19T22:00:00.000+08:00

I can do my blogging time when Yena is busy with her Laplap, her pink portable dvd. I can face my laptop Nancy and she can do her own thing with her laplap. She knows how to operate laplap now, she changes cd if she gets bored hahah.

She loves to watch Dora, Barney, Sesame Street, Mc Donalds, Jollibee, and Blues Clues. She isn't into movies yet, often times when her cousins are watching cartoon movies at home - she would just play around or sleep instead. ^_^

My share on Mommy Moments this friday. Click the badge to join and see other entries. Happy MM everyone!

Pricey Doll House

2010-08-17T16:25:00.000+08:00

Have you ever heard of a doll house that costs the same as the real one? Well, this doll house was extravagantly sold to an overseas collector in the amount of $85,000. This cute abode is made up of a number of rooms, all matched with complete furnishings and accessories including the grand piano in music room and mini-books in the library.

This tiny house measures 1.2 meter wide, 82 centimeter deep and stands 1 meter high. It was constructed little by little by Peter Riches since 1994. Truly, this is an investment of unquestionable labor which resulted into a favorable outcome after fifteen years. Should I sweep winnings in one of the lotto draws or hit the bonuses in US online casinos, I would never take a second thought in acquiring this for my precious Yena.

Wanted: Model Mom

2010-08-16T20:31:00.002+08:00

Every mom in the world looks forward to growing smart kids. She takes necessary routines to develop the brain of the baby even if he still in the womb. How eager she reads aloud enlightening books so that the baby can hear and grasp ideas. She even plays classical music by Beethoven as it is proven to affect positively on the sweet angel. As much as possible, she does not expose herself into any kind of stress whether psychological, emotional or physical when these can also influence the development of baby’s biology.

When the cutie sees the world, the mom ensures that he registers what is good and bad on his brain’s clean slate. He is given toys that are fun, attractive and colorful to play with yet subtly impose education. As he grows, he is restricted to engage on games that would corrupt his mind. He is enrolled to extra-curricular classes to bring out the hidden talents in him, to build relationship with fellow kids and improve social skills. He is tailed to hear masses to sculpt his spiritual pattern.

The yardstick of success of a woman, speaking of motherhood, is not judged on how triumphant is her offspring’s life had become, but how her child fought the world by the virtues and values she marked to him. More than this, she already won her battle and got the best jackpot some Casinos online can give!

Yena Loves Books

2010-08-13T00:00:00.002+08:00

Yena and i started reading books months before she turned one. She has books i bought when she's barely a weeks old. Although i read to her every time, its different when its the fairy tales book and the likes. When she turned two, she recognizes each of her book and can tell what's her favorite from the rest.

Her most favorite among her many tot books is The Story of Christmas. She loves that book so much. Actually she adores any books, bring her a book as a pasalubong and she would squeal with so much gratitude. Before i would decide on what would be our night time read but now she chooses a book and read them just like this...

Aside from reading, she loves to point and enumerate everything on her chart posted on our wall. Now every animals has its own story, you just have to understand her 'fantasies' aka story-telling to appreciate. LOL

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Mellow Yellow Monday: Very Happy Yena

2010-08-09T00:00:00.002+08:00

After the 9am mass yesterday, my daughter posed with her cousin CJ and Shan. And i had to keep on telling her to smile.. So that's what she gave me in return.. That's her super happy smile :)

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My Dream Cars

2010-08-08T01:25:00.003+08:00

Sophisticated cars always catch my eyes. I have a tireless passion to drive with pride in one of those stylish autos. How I wish, someday, I could see the same admiration in the eyes of other people looking at me while I maneuver the steering wheel and show off “my baby”. Have here my top picks:

a. Mercedes-Benz E Class Sedan. It won’t hurt if I keep dreaming in owning a luxury car especially if it is one of the classy existing brands worldwide – Mercedes Benz. This car gives you a sporty and smooth driving with its powerful engine. The new edition was designed a little farther from the classic Benz by knocking out the famous four round headlights. This costs $48,000 to $65,000.

b. Lexus GX-460. Go for SUV! What I like with this one is it is a very capable off-roader. Its navigation system is upgraded that one can even send destination from home computer directly to the vehicle. It can accommodate up to seven (7) passengers. Prices range from $52,000 to $57,000.

c. Volvo C30. My love for sporty look never fades, not to mention, its fresh and interesting design. This one fits for a starting family. I learned that this mini-car is a comfortable commuter with its strong acceleration.

d. Audi S4. The beauty of its body can even speak for its performance, added by better fuel economy. Audi has introduced a bigger interior to provide more comfort to passengers. Don’t forget its electronic features including driver memory functions, voice controls and navigation system.

How I wish I could end my dreaming, take one of these and hit the road!

MM: Lights.. Camera.. Pose!

2010-08-06T13:00:00.000+08:00

My daughter loves to pose in front of the camera. For the pictures below, she's the one who insisted on being photographed by me. These are her most recent pictures being so flirty with the camera, as much as i would like to put all those pictures way back when, its hard to upload most especially if my internet connection is acting up, like right now. grrr.

So now see how she has become a little model, lol.

Little brown dress $2, gold sandals $4 at SM Department Store

Skimpy zebra two piece from Tita Pehpot

Cousin Kathy and Yena, wearing Black and White pretty dress from Tita Fedhz

Fab Pink Dress from Mommy Umma

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Fun and Making Money Online

2010-08-06T12:03:00.000+08:00

Technology has conquered the diversity of online casinos for USA players. If you are tired of playing the same old games you used to lay a wager, wide variation is now available in the net.

You can hop from virtual slots to table games. Seize the no-deposit attractions and catch the bonuses that you could hardly get from a land-based casino. No hassle of bringing in a large sum of money. Not to mention, USA online casinos are taking their risk to give out more enticing promotions to capture a share in the market.

While the competition is stiff, make advantage of it and enjoy the most money you can win!

Talking to a Toddler

2010-08-02T19:01:00.000+08:00

I have shared how much my daughter loves to talk about everything all the time. She is quite a parrot. But yesterday, my sister noticed that her R is spoken as L and S as T. Like for example she says, mommy DILT Y (dirty) or TORRY for sorry.

I remember my sister speaks just like that when she was a toddler too. So she asked my daughter to say PUSANG INA. That was so hilarious! My mother told her that its bad words and don’t say those things in front of her daddy.

I beg her to say pusang ina in front of her daddy, testing the waters if she would be brave enough to say pusang ina ^_^.

BUT she replied; daddy diba bad yun?!

Hahahah. Bright Child. ^_^

Her picture after eating ube ice cream, here saying mommy dilty ko na! ^_^

MM: Grocery Day

2010-07-29T22:03:00.000+08:00

Every Saturday is our grocery day. Yena and I plus my sister’s children would to go Puregold riding on a tricycle. This is what yena looks forward to every weekend. When I tell her to nap early, she knows that when she wakes up in the afternoon we will go direct to Puregold. =)

My grocery buddies

But last night was another story since we ran out of yena’s favorite koko krunch, her watermelon juice and nestle fresh milk, we went to Puregold when I arrived home from work.

yena calls koko krunch as kuku champs :D

Usually the kids would go to the play area, a mini arcade, where they enjoy the merry go round and play some arcade games after our grocery session but last night, I bribed them for an ice cream so we can go home early, hihih.

A pose with their favorite jollibee before gong home :)

On Her Own!

2010-07-28T07:57:00.000+08:00

Yena learned to wear her own socks and shoes months ago. She is very particular with her shoes, she takes care of them, put them on their own boxes every time. Sometimes, she is an OC toddler but sometimes she can make a lot of mess inside the house! ^_^

Glad that i was able to capture her independent moment last weekend...

Pause.. Smile..

Done!

Yena and her Bedtime Routine

2010-07-26T22:46:00.003+08:00

Every night, yena looks forward to her cleaning-up time; she loves brushing her teeth and enjoys her warm bath with johnson and johnson's baby bedtime products. My 30 months old toddler uses only Johnson and Johnson's product by the way. But her favorite is the bedtime bath, because of its soothing sweet scent.

After the cleaning-up she would bath herself with the johnson's baby powder. We would read books or watch her cds at her portable dvd or sing her favorite songs or just tickle each other until we fall to sleep. A little prayer will end the routine and there she goes to lalaland ^_^

How about you? Care to share your bedtime routine?! Join us and get the chance to bring home lotsa Johnson and Johnson's products!

Share with us your bedtime routine and win JOHNSON´S® Baby Bedtime products!!! (click to join)

Sleep is one of the most important factors in releasing growth hormones, most especially for very young babies.While your baby sleeps, her little body produces 3x more growth hormones.

The good news is there is a way to promote better sleep for your baby: through a consistent nightly bedtime routine.

Learn more about the JOHNSON´S® Baby Bedtime Routine, clinically proven to stretch your baby´s sleep by as much as 23%.

In addition to the JOHNSON´S® Baby Bedtime Routine and products, there are countless other ways you can help your baby fall asleep and even share bonding moments in the process!

MM: A day in Lasalette

2010-07-23T01:00:00.004+08:00

To my part of the world here in cavite, we don’t have any park! The only place that looks like a park to me is at Lasalette Silang Cavite. So for my share on Mommy Moments this Friday, here are the pictures I took last mother’s day at Lasalette.

My daughter Yena and her Cousins at the man-made lake

Posing at one of the Lady of Lasalette statue

Strolling.. That's her enjoying the walk while holding her red elmo! :)

Little Story Maker

2010-07-21T12:25:00.000+08:00

You know how much patience you need to arm yourself when you have a toddler? Mountain full!

Yena is so talkative to the highest degree nowadays. She talks and talks like there’s no more tomorrow. Everything has a story, from her toys down to our dog potchi. Now you think that all of them happened? No. Some of her stories are made up! Now is the time that her imagination is running wild.

Last time she told my mother that my MIL and I had a misunderstanding. My mother asked me what happened and if it’s true. Poof! That’s a big lie. My MIL and I get along very well. Told that foolish story to my husband and we both had a good laugh. Oh my.

Last night, while I was trying to fix my prepaid internet connection, she kept on bugging me for a lot of things endlessly. While talking to SMART representatives she butt in and asked me? Mom, who’s that? Why Mom? Why aren't you listening to me mom? Mom, what are you doing?!

No, I don’t complain about her being talkative and all. I find it amusing actually. And I know I will miss this stage when she grows up.

MM: Rides and Yena

2010-07-15T22:20:00.000+08:00

Yena looks forward to our malling on weekends. She won't go home unless she was able to ride all of the available rides. The picture below was taken from one of our many mall visits and her favorite rides...

Me and Yena, My sister and her children Eya and Yael

My share on Mommy Moments this friday. Click the badge below to see more...

MM: Kids and Bags

2010-07-08T22:00:00.000+08:00

It's been a while since i last joined Mommy Moments, i have missed a lot! =) Anyways, here's my daughter Yena with the bag she got as a giveaway on a birthday party of my officemate's daughter Zoie at Max's Restaurant last May 2010.

She wakes up every morning telling us she will go to school with this pink bag! =) It has her toys, pencils, pressed powder (the old one that only has mirror) and papers.

Chikie Boy and my family plus my boss' daughter Francine

Disciplining Toddlers from the Book: Discipline without Shouting or Spanking

2010-07-06T12:51:00.003+08:00

There are seven techniques defined in the book Discipline without Shouting or Spanking by Jerry Wyckoff and Barbara Unell. And they are the following;

Beat-the-clock – since children loves to win, this motivational technique teaches them to win a race against the time. This technique reduces power struggle to parents and children, the authority is being transferred to the timer.

Grandma’s Rule – is derived from the axiom ‘when you work, you eat’. it is like saying; WHEN you have X (what the parents want to do), they you may do Y (what the child wants to do). Note: Never substitute IF to WHEN.

Neutral Time – When the child is calm or after at tantrum is finished, that’s the best time to teach a child a new behavior.

Praise – verbally recognized a behavior. Praise should describe the behavior not the child. Sample would be, “Good eating” instead of “Good girl for eating!”

Reprimand – short statement would be: (1) a command to stop the behavior, (2) a reason why the behavior should stop, and (3) an alternative to the behavior. Example: “stop hitting, hitting hurts people. Ask your friend nicely to give you the toy”

Rule – a predetermined behavioral expectation that includes a stated outcome and consequences. Example of a rule: ‘we put dirty clothes in the hamper when we take them off so we can keep our house neat and so we won’t have to pick stuff all the time.”

Time Out – to take a child out of a situation for a set period of time, usually because of inappropriate behavior. Typical timeout involves taking your child to a chair or room, setting a time for a certain length of time (approximately one minute for each year of age, up to five minutes) and telling her she must stay there until the timer rings.

I have been using some of the techniques and I really recommend this book to all the mothers or care givers out there. The book has problem and solving techniques on every chapter that I find really useful (i cannot write down everything here no matter how much i want to share the contents of the book. the authors might sue me for reprinting without permission, heheh).

So, grab a copy now at the nearest book store, the book costs P184 (est $4) only!

Win $300 worth of Brand New COACH Satchel Bag

2010-06-30T13:56:00.003+08:00

Yena’s godmother Umma is holding her first ever contest in the blogniverse. She will be giving away a brand new COACH satchel bag, a way of sharing her blessings and in celebration of her and her husband’s 6th wedding anniversary on July 28.

If the contest becomes successful, the giveaway/contest will be a monthly thing that we bloggers can look forward to! I wonder what’s the next prize would be – Ipad, Ipod or an LV Bag maybe?! Lol

Main Sponsors:

College Grants for Women : Fun Family Vacations : Pontoon Boat Cover : Baby Shower Theme Idea

Level 1 Sponsors:

Beauty Tips and Tricks : Get Smart Blog : Practical Beauty Tips : Spices of Life : Review My Opinions : New Haircuts and Hairstyles : Fabulously Frugal : Weight Loss the Healthy Way

Really if you wish to bring this fab bag (like i do!!), come and join us! The contest runs from June 28 to July 28. Best of luck to all of us!

PS:
If you learn about the contest from here and decided to join please tell Umma you are being referred by me, NIKO. =) Thanks a lot!

Yena doesn’t like MILK anymore

2010-06-23T11:21:00.002+08:00

My yena, who drinks 8 ounces of milk on her bottle 3 times a day suddenly ignore milk since last week, when she got mouth blisters. This worries husband and me a lot. She drinks lots of chuckie, iced tea and watermelon juice and still eats rice or bread. She is still a voracious eater. But instead of asking for her milk before bed time she would request for 2 chuckie that would help her doze to sleep.

I am no nutrition expert but choosing chuckie over milk isn’t healthy for a 29 months old toddler! Is it? I don’t know. I have friends whose children aren’t into milk too BUT since I am so used to yena’s big appetite on her milk and her sudden loss of appetite to it, I just cannot sit back and relax. So to her pedia we shall go this Saturday!

Children’s Clothes Can Make Memories

2010-06-22T09:40:00.001+08:00

As you prepare for your new baby, perhaps you dream about dressing your boy in blue. Maybe he will wear what you wear now, like a miniature version of you. Maybe you imagine your daughter in a summer dress, blowing bubbles on your front porch. Perhaps you reject the traditional roles of children's clothing, and decide you're going to dress your children how you wished your parents had dressed you. Yet, as soon as the baby comes, all expectations, plans, and daydreams fly out of the window. Dreams become real, and they often leave you overwhelmed. Suddenly children's clothes seem trivial, and you'll dress them in whatever you can find.

There's no reason to give up on those daydreams you had before the baby arrived. It just takes some extra effort. You know that your child will hit growth spurts and that you'll end up buying new clothes constantly - so make it fun! Like food, clothing is one of the universal things that humanity shares, regardless of culture or location. Children's clothes are for the parent just as much as they are for the child. Embrace the opportunity, and rather than buying a shirt with the latest action movie character on it, get a classic polo. Treat the clothes as investments. If you have timeless pieces than can withstand the test of time, you can retain them for future children, or the children of friends and family.

In a digital age where parents can capture every moment on a cell phone or a webcam, post every memory on a blog or print and paste them into a scrapbook, there's still a way to give those moments a timeless appeal. Flip through old family photos and see the clothes your parents chose for you. One day your kids will look at old photos and do the same thing.

Discipline without Shouting or Spanking

2010-06-22T08:36:00.000+08:00

I have issues on husband’s kind of disciplining our daughter. He is firm and his voice very authoritative. Mere mention of husband’s voice would make her behave. So the disciplining parts I always delegate that to my husband.

But there was one time when my daughter was acting too harsh and I being the spoiler cannot control her anymore. And it’s harder when husband isn’t around. I need to know how to discipline her too, I told myself. But I would always say no to shouting or spanking as a means of disciplining my daughter. So when Fedhz told me about this book, Discipline without Shouting or Spanking by Jerry Wyckoff and Barbara Unell, I was saved. She is an angel!

When we met on Misaki’s wedding, she gave me a copy of that awesome book. I have generous friends, heheh. I have been reading it every day on my every free time. I love its contents if only I can share all that I am learning from that book I would. Really, shouting and spanking is never an option in disciplining a child!

Grab your copy now. You won’t regret it!

Getting a Good Deal, Daily

2010-06-22T07:39:00.000+08:00

There are hundreds of websites floating around in the multi-dimensional world of the internet, some promising amazing deals and coupons you can't find anywhere else. In most cases, websites who broadcast themselves as such do not come through on their promises. They usually make their money through ad sales and special cooperations with the products they push, and this usually leaves the everyday consumer none the wiser.

For the shop-wise bargain-hunter, finding a reliable website that delivers honest deals and reasonable coupon codes makes the difference between a smart, fulfilling purchase and a frustrating day at the internet marketplace. Additionally, some deal-based websites can be overwhelming with the amount of ad space and text occupying the screen, making it hard to discern on the website what is legitimate and what will pull you to a strange, third-party website asking for your e-mail address and credit-card number.

Enter dailydeals.com, a website offering exactly what the URL suggests: daily deals. As in real life, some days are better than others, but the deals are always there. Unlike other deal websites, there's no clutter here from competing ad space or dubious third-party links. From coupons for taking $100 off your next Kitchen Aid Mixer, to 25% off Ed Hardy polo and dress shirts, dailydeals has it.

When you're at a coupon website and you see a deal that's too good to be true, like 50%
on an iMac, then that's a giveaway the website isn't out to get you a deal, but to make them money. Everything on dailydeals.com is realistic, and though there isn't a customer ranking on the website to test the reliability of the coupon codes, it is assumed that the deals provided will speak for themselves -- and they do.

Mouth Blisters

2010-06-17T12:47:00.001+08:00

Yena told me her tooth is aching last Monday so I told husband that we shall bring her to a dentist asap. The whole day she didn’t drink her milk, which was very unusual. She drinks milk three times a day, when she wakes up in the morning, before her afternoon nap and before sleeping at night. Later that night, I saw that it isn’t a toothache; the culprit is the mouth blisters, again.

Since Monday, she refused her milk. She only wanted her watermelon juice, iced tea or her chuckie. That worries me a lot. But my mother, who take care of yena when husband and I are at work told me that she eats rice and soup and drinks plenty of fluid so there’s nothing to worry. I just hope that the blisters will be gone sooner than soon. She has sprays and gels to ease her from the pain of the blisters and I hope that by tomorrow she will be back to her voracious self.

I am only thankful that Yena is still very active kid inspite of those blisters, every night it has been a routine for her to watch her cds with her laplap. Now she has lots of favorites already and that includes bob the builder, about elmo’s train and cars. I will not be surprise if by next day she will tell me about wood dash, for sure she got that from too much watching!

Coupons and Saving Money

2010-06-16T09:56:00.000+08:00

He tucked the money saving guide into his back pocket--he'd read it later when he had a minute to breathe. It was his Sunday morning habit to go through the papers and look for good coupons. He figured he'd read the pamphlet then. It would jive well with his coupon search. There was a great deal of satisfaction in saving money, he'd found.

He only needed to know that he was getting a few cents off his cereal or his whole wheat bread to feel a certain surge of self-esteem and contentment. It was like a little time release capsule of well being, and every time he bought something at a great price, he received another small dose of satisfaction. Well, that was why he looked forward to Sunday mornings so much. He'd settle into his easy chair with his cup of coffee on the end table beside him. He'd sit in a patch of sunlight and the cat would be there purring contentedly. And he'd look through the coupons carefully, cutting out the ones that appealed to him, until his newspaper was full of holes, and he had a neat pile of the thin squares sitting next to him. He'd get his file folder out and file the coupons away according to his system.

They were organized based on how the grocery store was organized. Produce first, then breakfast cereal, then the meats and cheeses, the rest of the dairy, eggs and milk, frozen foods, and finally bread and crackers. Sometimes, if there were a really great coupon for some hygienic item like toothpaste or toilet paper, he'd get those things from the grocery store as well. He didn't know why, but he'd gotten to the point where he couldn't buy something unless it was on sale.

Mini Me

2010-06-16T08:15:00.000+08:00

That’s often the remark every time yena and I are out on occasions. She is usually behaved. She acts like me, pose just like me, smile just like me and walks and talks just like me.
She is really a mini me.. Last Saturday on the wedding of Seiko’s daughter she broke a glass of iced tea in the reception. See? Told you she is a mini me.. She is a little clumsy just like me! =)

Summer Savings with Macy's Promotional Codes

2010-06-16T07:54:00.000+08:00

Using Promotional Codes to Save Money

Promotional codes can be considered an online coupon; when making a purchase through an Internet store, such as Macy's, you can type in a promotional code to save on your purchase. It has the same effect as that of handing a paper coupon over to a clerk during checkout. For example, the retailer 'Macy's' translated its long-term catalogue business into a strong online presence. Macy's promotional codes can be used to score savings on your summer purchases. There's really no reason to make an online purchase without first checking for existing promotional codes, unless you have money to burn. So, how do you find promotional codes?

Getting Promotional Codes

A lot of people get their promotional codes from online retailers through Internet mailing lists. But if you're not on one of those lists, you can still get your hands on them by searching and going to a website that offers them. You can also get a hold of them by going to a retailer's site and seeing if any codes are up for offer. Retailers regularly use the promotional codes to allow you to save on hot items, out-of-season clothes, or to ease up on shipping costs.

Promotional Codes and Coupons

Sometimes promotional codes can be used in conjunction with in-store pickup. So, if you live near a retailer that offers their goods online, but also gives the option of allowing you to pick them up from the actual store, you can save on the item and not worry about shipping costs. People who receive promotional codes often share them with others through websites, which is important since promotional codes have expiration dates, just like coupons. A quick search online can help you find such a website.

MM: Yena's Unforgettable Summer

2010-06-04T00:00:00.002+08:00

This year i must say is the most unforgettable summer for the whole family.. Let the ff pictures do the talks.. =)

We had a one week grand vacation courtesy of Yena's godmother, Umma, last March. We went to Ocean Adventure and Zoobic Safari in Subic and spent 3 days and 2 nights at Acuatico Beach Resort.

At Ocean Adventure while watching the dolphin show.

At Zoobic Safari

At Acuatico Beach Resort

Enjoying the poolside of Makati Shangrila, right after coming from Acuatico Beach

Watched the sneak preview Acquatica, the newest attraction of Manila Ocean Park in April

Spent daddy's advance birthday celebration at Ternate Beach in April

Night Swimming at Laguna Hot Spring with the Finance Dep of Eastern Telecoms

Last wave of the summer fun at Naic Aroma Beach Resort in May

My share for this friday's Mommy Moments. Happy MM everyone!

Yena the Teaser

2010-06-02T09:06:00.000+08:00

Aside from pouting and making faces yena's current hobby now is to tease me endlessly. Last night she was singing - uwian na, hindi na masaya, may paepal kasi- again and again while looking at me.

The other night i told her, i love you baby and she replied: weh, di nga, talaga?

Last night while talking to her daddy on the phone (it was 11pm already and husband was still at work) she said: daddy anong petsa na?!

I think she got all this words from me or from her playmates at home. But gosh, is this normal for a 28 months old toddler? ^_^

Yena and I

2010-05-30T21:32:00.003+08:00

yena and i on matching yellow outfits ^_^

This is the most recent picture of Yena and i. this was taken this morning right after our mass service. Yena sings with me during the mass while husband plays the guitar. She knows how to sing Papuri sa Diyos and Alleluia (note: on alto tone). We share on one microphone already =)

Yena knows how to pose every time cami is around. And the japan pose is always there.. Still praying hard that she grows up to be a good girl and god-fearing, i won't ask for anything more.

No More Next Time

2010-05-27T09:53:00.000+08:00

I was so guilty the whole day yesterday. I hurt yena but I was hurt a hundred folds. Felt I was the worst mom on earth.

The other night, while I was blogging she ran to me with the laundry basket on her head. She was imitating the zombies (on plants vs zombies game) – I found it cute coz she always do that to ‘scare’ me. Her toys were all over the floor so after 30 minutes I told her to keep them and put them on the laundry basket. She kept on ignoring me. Told her I am getting angry already – she just looked at me.

That’s what she always does since she knows I will be keeping all her toys by the way. But I should teach her to be organized somehow.. so I insist that she keeps her toys. She was so stubborn. That was the end of my rope so I hit her – not that it’s hard. I don’t hit hard that’s the problem. I just want to scare her but that doesn’t work.

So I walked out instead of hurting her again. It was hard.

I came back after less than 2 minutes and she was crying on her bed – cried while telling me – “please mommy help me keep my toys” ^_^

Coz after keeping her toys she’s back to her sweet self, embracing and telling me how much she loves me. I explained to her about the hitting and she did understand why I was so upset. Last night, she was so organized with her toys and books - no more reminding, no more hitting. She learned her lesson well, thanks God.

But i told husband that would be the last (of me hitting or scolding yena), he has to do the disciplining part forever. =)

The History of Business Cards

2010-05-23T23:59:00.001+08:00

Business cards have a long history. They first came on the scene over 400 years ago in 17th century France as visiting cards, or as they were known in French, "Visite Biletes." The first visiting cards were nothing more than playing cards on which visitors wrote their names or other messages so that the person whom they were visiting could identify them. They were also often used as handy places to write promissory notes, which often passed for money in Medieval times.

Eventually, some smart entrepreneurs decided to convert the visiting cards into more professional looking cards with pre-printed information like a person's name and address. The first business cards were born. The appearance of these professionally manufactured cards can be traced to the rule of Louis XIV of France.

The British arrived at the concept of business cards in a more peculiar manner. Apparently, 17th century London did not have street numbers. So, it was difficult for customers to find businesses easily. Companies began using small, hand-sized cards called "trading cards" to help visitors find them. These cards contained route maps and directions on how to reach a particular business; a modern day business card was just a step away from this innovation.

The earliest trading cards were simple products manufactured using a woodcut or letterpress technique. Within a century, this was replaced by copperplate engravings, which became popular. With the development of lithography in the 19th century, monochrome trading cards gave way to colored ones. These developed into modern business cards.

In today's world, business cards have adapted to being online with the ubiquitous vCards and eCards. These days, business cards can be emailed, downloaded from websites, and even sent as text messages from a mobile phone. The business card has come a long way from the days when companies used trading cards to tell people how to get to their stores.

Mother's Day 2010

2010-05-21T22:16:00.002+08:00

Sorry Marce Chris for the late post. As you already know i just got back my connection last night, so now am back to the blogging grind, lol.

Anyways, here's my mother's day 2010 picture, with my family, nieces, nephews and my sister's family. We celebrated mother's day at Lasalette in Silang Cavite. After the afternoon mass, we stroll around the little paradise and had so much fun.

Happy weekends Everyone!

Yena’s bitten face

2010-05-20T10:41:00.001+08:00

I wish to capture it for memories sake but I can’t. Since I only blog through proxy I have no means to upload pictures. Plus my cami is with husband, who is out of town for work for 5 days.

Anyways, Yena’s face was bitten by his kuya yael, Monday night. Her left face below her eyes was swollen. I can only imagine husband’s outrage if he sees it. But poor kuya yael was apologetic – it was a kiddie fight that they always do. The last time it was yena who bite her kuya yael over a little toy fight. All I can do is to talk to them to never hurt each other again.

Yena, ang batang bungang araw

2010-05-12T15:57:00.000+08:00

I have been wanting to blog about yena’s bungang araw. She has them all over her body since last week. But before posting it, I searched for the English term first for the sake of the readers abroad who doesn’t know what bungang araw is.

So, bungang araw is prickly heat or rashes in English. Now I know. Thank you google!

Anyway, here’s some info I got from DOH about bungang araw, the causes, signs, preventions and treatments.

Prickly heat is a type of heat rash characterized by tiny bumps or even water blisters.

Causes:
• Brought about by clogging of sweat glands, resulting into tiny bumps.
• The forehead (under caps or visors), body folds, the upper back and chest, and the arms are the most common locations.
• Most common when it is hot and humid.

Signs:
• ‘Prickly’ sensation.
• The rash can look quite similar to one caused by infected hair follicles (folliculitis), there are no hair follicles in prickly heat bumps.

Prevention:
• Take a bath everyday.
• Limit exposure to the sun.
• Always dries up sweat from the skin.
• Wear light, loose clothing.

Treatment:
• Cleanse the skin gently.
• Apply corn starch or baking soda powder.
• If there is excessive itching or if the rash is infected, consult a physician.

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-06T23:08:00.003+08:00

Today's theme at Mommy Moments is motherly advice. I'd like to pass since i don't know what to advice on motherhood since am just a new mom, lol. I will be celebrating my 3rd mother's day this sunday so compare to other mommies at Mommy Moments it would seem like i will be talking to my motherhood mentors already hihihih.

I look up to all the moms at mommy moments and will just want to greet everyone a very Happy Mother's Day!

PS: well, do you really want to hear my advice? It will be just one thing; love your child/children regardless of their difference and ask God for guidance in raising them and you will never go wrong! i hope i get it right. lol