My 2 cents: a family blog

Starting 2012 with a clean slate

2011-12-29T09:11:00.001-08:00

If you have been holding on to many unnecessary people, let them fools go.

If you have been clinging on to some old memories for too long, let the past go.

If you have been holding on to a bad partner hoping that they will change some day, let their go.

If you have been haunted and bound by past mistakes, it's time to let them go.

If you have been holding on to hate, regret or old grudges, let that drama go.

If you have been afraid and stopping yourself from being who you truly are for too long, let all that self-doubt go.

If you have been insecure of your abilities and afraid to take risks for too long, let go of the loser mentality.

It's time to let it all go and prepare your soul for a new life that is waiting for you in 2012

Welcome to the Jungle

2011-12-22T14:00:00.001-08:00

12.21.2011
My boy turns 7...lucky number 7!
The original plan was a house party on the 17th...then realized that I had planned three parties back to back from the 16th (hosted our work Holiday shindig) & the 18th (Annual Nestie Baked Good Exchange). Thank goodness that Scooter's Jungle had an opening on a Wednesday that happened to be Russell's actual birthday and my day off!! And as t turned out was the best decision EVER! We invited his classmates and their parents & had a blast! We kept the menu simple & kid friendly...Pizza, Chicken Strips and mini Corndogs. I even made it a whole lot easier with the goodie bags...Angry Birds stuffed animals, Angry Bird Cookies and some other items. The kids loved it! And seeing the faces of the parents as the kids ripped open the goodie bags was classic! I could almost see the bubble on top of their head saying OMG!
More pics to come

To my dearest Anak

2011-12-21T00:23:00.000-08:00

Dearest Rj,
About 7 years ago you entered our world and have been such a big source of joy in our hearts. From your colicky nights and now ever so curious and inquisitive mind you continue to amaze and challenge us in so many wonderful ways. I thank God everyday for the wonderful gift He gave your Papa and I...and that is you, Russell!
We love you so much and pray that you continue to be a wonderful person and make a difference in this world.
Love,
Mama

Starting a new Tradition

2011-12-09T13:23:00.000-08:00

During one of our car ride conversations, Russell asked me if I knew about the Elf on the Shelf book. I honeslty had no idea what it was about so he continued to tell me the story in his own words. I was intrigued. Being a sucker for anything traditionally Christmas...we visited the nearest Barnes and Noble the very next day and searched for the book.

It came in a hard covered box and it contained the book and your very own Elf.

After reading the story to the kids, we named our Elf...

Before going to bed we made sure that we took off the stickers that hold the plastic cover in place and untied the twisty ties holding Fredey in place. Russell made a visual check on Fredey where I left him and he asked me if Fredey was on the shelf or off the shelf when I placed the book in the hallway. I told him Fredey was sitting on the shelf. Apparently when Russell checked on Fredey, he was NOT sitting on the shelf...OOOhhhh!

Morning came and this is what I found in the hallway...an empty box....where did Fredey go.

Kids woke up early and found Fredey here...sitting next to the TV in my room, smiling and watching them....this could get a bit creepy...but the kids love it. Although Celeste keeps asking to hold Fredey and play with him. And Russell keeps reminding her that kids can't touch him, other wise the Christmas Magic will disappear and Fredey will not be able to go back to Santa to report their activities.

I am a bit curious as to how long this will last and how many creative ways we will find Fredey at.

Our new Home...

2011-12-04T20:05:00.000-08:00

It is beautiful...but no plumbing....
Its the house of George Mason, one of the main writters of The Declaration of Independence but refused to sign it because he did not fully support what it stated 100%...which led to George Washington excommunicating him as a friend. That is why we have by heard of him before.

On our way

2011-12-01T07:05:00.001-08:00

To the airport...

Merry Christmas from our family to yours...2011

2011-11-26T00:07:00.000-08:00

Stationery card

View the entire collection of cards.

Remembering

2011-11-09T14:23:00.000-08:00

Remembering Hawaii 2011

Dreaming Big

2011-11-09T12:03:00.000-08:00

Someday I hope to enjoy this at my own backyard. And drink Sea Salt Coffee

My baby girl turns 4

2011-10-24T06:42:00.001-07:00

We celebrated her birthday last Saturday, although today is her actual birthday. Where does the time go...they do grow up fast. Now she tells me "the Octagon says Stop!" each time we see a stop sign. Not even 5 yet and already a back seat driver. And she has discovered that she has a singing voice & currently loves to dance and sing "I wanna live in America" from West Side story. Truly an entertainer of ours.

Its October again...

2011-10-07T03:20:00.000-07:00

and do you know what that means? Someone is having a birthday in this home of ours and she will be turning 4!! How time flies ... she is already in PreK and has definitely come out of her shell.

A few weeks back I was proclaiming that this year I was just going to have Celeste celebrate her birthday in school - no big hoopla party like last years. As the days rolled by I kept fighting with myself about the whole idea of celebrating her birthday.
Until one day I got a very special package in the mail. It was Hello Kitty Cookies from a friend who is part of a fundraising for Autism. In exchange for monetary donation she will bake cookies. I took this opportunity to get my hands on her yummy cookies. When the package arrived I couldn't wait to open it but it was time to pick up the kids and do homework, make/eat/cleanup dinner...yada yada yada. Finally after everyone was bathed I got my chance and little Miss Celeste happened to be in my room.
As I opened the box, her eyes got really big and a huge grin came out of her little face as she screamed
"Hello Kitty Cookies!! I loooooooooove Hello Kitty!!"

And so I took these pictures


Just look at that happiness

She proceeded to sing as she got her paws on one


a little sad that it was almost gone

After seeing how her face lit up when we opened the box - a light bulb came up above my head.
We are going to have a Hello Kitty Party...but not all babyish like the one for her 2nd birthday.
After texting my 3 sisters near me one of them texted me this picture of a Hello Kitty Inspired Party

OH EM GHEE!!! How could I not do this? As it turned out this is from PaperGlitter one of my favorite ETSY vendors. As I checked out her blog I came across an entry in which she shared instructions in how to she put together this party for her daughter and instruction on how to do this Sweet Shoppe Stand. So I went and purchased her Sweet Shoppe File. Its definitely a sign.

So far this is what I've accomplished

Going back

2011-07-12T21:48:00.001-07:00

Today I finally took the step to take action to get healthy & fit. After 2 months of looking and reading about Pure Barre I bit the bullet and signed up. And the new client special of unlimited classes for a month for only $100 wasn't too bad. Although I had a choice of just signing up for one class, I chose the unlimited one to commit myself to this change. I felt nervous to the point of nausea since it's been 10+ years since I last did any kind of a serious work out. It was challenging! I felt sweat go down my face, felt the limbs start to shake & the burn...oh the burn! I welcomed the cool down part of the workout with open arms. But the best part is the post work out high!
This could be the beginning of a new healthy habit.

Family Vacation: Hawaii 2011

2011-06-18T07:41:00.001-07:00

Family Vacation: Hawaii 2011
6-17-2011
Happy 39th Birthday to me!
Spent the day traveling & finally arriving to a place I've only seen in my dreams-Hawaii!!
After deplaning Rj kept saying "I'm so hot!" - that's tropics weather for you. I just thought it was perfect.
Upon arrival to the baggage claim area- we were met by surprise Leis from my family. How awesome is that! Well THEY are awesome!
No wonder my brother kept saying/texting "keeps watchful eye for your names"...well there were 2 signs...one for the Leis & one for our transport to our home the next 7 days...Hilton Waikoloa Village.
After about 30 mins we enter Waikoloa - there's the Queen's market, some villas & King's Shop (high end stuff). Our resort is at the end of the road. After checking in, taking the tram to our tower, checking out the view & the room (Celeste already claimed the $15.95 Dolphin on the bed), freshening up we headed to Queen's shop to have dinner & buy milk at the local grocery shop. Of course you can never buy JUST milk...but first dinner. We chose to eat at Sansei's: had sushi and the usual stuff. Feeling a bit adventurous I wanted to try a new drink-so I had the Hawaiian Shaved Ice drink...nasty as cough medicine...I'm sticking to what I like...at least with the drinks.
During dinner Rj's slippers broke so we HAD to buy him new ones.As we left the restaurant we were met with rain...tropical rain...you know the wet & humid kind...the kind most people just walk through-but not us! We were shaking like leaves...hahaha! Ended up buying a hat for Celeste, new crocs for both kids (Rj's broke & Celeste's was just nasty looking & old), found a Hawaiian Hello Kitty ( of course I got it-it's my birthday) then headed off to the grocery store. With milk we got breakfast stuff, souvenir stuff (Rj is collecting keychains) and I found more Hello Kitty stuff!!
Returned to the resort & settled in for the night - by this time it was 1230am LA time & kids were exhausted - I did not hear one complaint from either one.
What a wonderful & memorable birthday it has been...more to come.

Sent from Mae's iPhone

Nurses are every day heroes 2011

2011-05-12T11:54:00.000-07:00

May 11, 2011:

Kaiser held their Nurses' Week Dinner held at DoubleTree Hotel in Torrance.

I was joined by many other nurses who have all been Angels in a patients' care. Tonight we were reminded that we have a purpose. Dr. Bertice Berry was our main speaker, sharing with us her stories about her first hand experience with nurses. She made us laugh and at times made us tear up but most of all she reminded us of our purpose-that the everyday things we do at work have a purpose. "It's a thankless job"- I've heard other nurses say, but its not. Even though our patients might not remember our specific names-they remember the care that was given to them during their lowest point of their health & that is thanks enough.

And Thank You Florence Nightingale for paving the way for us...Thank You

Happy New Year 2011

2011-01-01T17:05:00.000-08:00

The past 2 weeks I've been on vacay mode and so glad for it. I was able to enjoy the Holidays with family-especially my kids & Ryan with no stress of having to go to work. Yeay!

So what did I do on the first day of the year...made Creme Brulee! Yup I surely did but it was from a box.

( I've been thinking about the Creme Brulee from Bellagio and well I just had to try. )

all mixed up and ready to wait the 1 hour suggested time for the "skin" to form

Ready to be put in the oven for caramelizing the sugar

Looks burnt but still smelled good.

It came out a bit more mushy than what I remember from Bellagio Buffet. I think its because of the ramikin being too deep, only got cooled off in room temperature and maybe just maybe I used the wrong cup to measure the whipping cream in and might have added a little more than what's asked for. I put the second container in the fridge and see what it comes out to be later tonight.

Happy New Year!

7 years ago...

2010-12-27T08:10:00.000-08:00

I wore the white dress & stood next to my love to promise to God and
all our families and friends ... Through thick and thin, for richer or
poorer, in sickness and in health, through good times and bad, through
dirty diapers and sleepless nights ... What a beautiful wonderful
adventure it continues to be.

Sent from my iPhone

Christmas 2010 part 1

2010-12-25T06:20:00.001-08:00

The month of December started off with Christmas already in our minds.
The four of us jumped on a plane to Washington DC to celebrate with my
Maranan family. From Thursday to Sunday it was nonstop eating &
laughter. Surprisingly Celeste did well with her first airplane trip
to anywhere.
I started off my 2 week vacation with a 3 day party marathon. Friday
was party with my 4000 Angels @ Santha's house. Fun times with them as
always. We work hard together & apparently we also party hard.
Saturday we partied like Rockstars celebrating Russell's 6th birthday
with handpicked friends from school. He then had his best friend
Collin sleep over. Sunday was the Annual Baked Goods Exchange with my
Nestie Girls. Good times, good food & great laughs. Came home with 15
different yummy treats plus my Holiday Ornament Exchange from Syl (my
Santa) with Hello Kitty gifts galore!! Jackpot!!
Sunday afternoon inspite of the pouring rain Ryan & I headed off to
Las Vegas sans kids until Tuesday. Vdara was our welcoming home for
those days. Christmas Eve was celebrated at Belmar joined by the Lee
Family. Xbox Kinect Dance Game was the "it" game of the night. Finally
got Celeste's kitchen & Russell's big boy bike. The look on their
faces...worth going to Toys R Us in those unreal hours of the night.
As the kids were spreading out the reindeer food, they looked up the
clear sky and saw something red flying across the sky...must have been
Rudolph's nose.
Off to bed ... off to bed ...

Sent from my iPhone

Post Thanksgiving 2010

2010-11-29T07:02:00.000-08:00

After coming down from my high from celebrating and putting together Celeste's 3rd birthday bash, I checked my holiday schedule at work and saw that I was off for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year. I was ecstatic! I've been checking out these blogs with printable decorations that barely cost anything and at times free! I was so excited to have the chance to use them for Thanksgiving Dinner.
As the holiday got closer and I checked my schedule again just to make sure...and sure enough it was changed...I was now scheduled to work Thanksgiving day...yes bummed as I was, I still wasn't about to give up in making at least something fun for the kids.
I went around town in search of the ingredients for the Oreo Turkey that I've been eyeing online. I managed to get everything from one store except the ever most important part of the whole thing...CANDY CORN!!! Its going to be the feather's of the turkey...and no where to be found in my town of Torrance...heck I even ventured out to Rolling Hills and still...NADA! Surrounded by what seemed like all the candies in the world...I wrecked my brain trying to figure out what would be a good replacement. I grabbed what I thought was the second best choice.
I showed sister-in-law Aileen the picture and she was in charge of having the kids make it. I came home early from work and found these little beauties...my niece Belle made them...And Celeste ate 2.

the cutest Oreo Turkeys!!

Thanksgiving 2010

2010-11-25T06:15:00.000-08:00

This past year there has been many ups and downs, good and bad and I am thankful for each of them because there is a purpose for both.
Many times I forget why I am stuck behind a slow driver while I am running behind schedule.
Or why the person in the one and only working stall in the ladies bathroom is taking so long while my bladder continues to be full.
There is a reason although I am not fully aware of it yet...I just have to believe that there is one.
God is all around us...watching us,guiding us, reminding us.
This Thanksgiving although I am going to be spending most of it working I AM THANKFUL that I have a job to complain about, a family to wash clothes for and a warm roof over our heads. And when I come home after a long day of feeding, cleaning and caring for other people's family members...I am thankful that there will be two sets of little arms waiting for me to wrap them around my neck.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING 2010 TO YOU AND YOURS!!

11.20.2010 PhotoBooth @Sanrio Small Gift L.A., Santa Monica, California

Trip #3 to Santa Monica Airport

2010-11-24T06:59:00.000-08:00

Yes yes...#3. It wasn't planned at all, I swear...well at least not consciously.

The day was suppose to be spent by me in a bus headed to Vegas with some Kaiser friends but that didn't pan out. I was feeling a bit bummed since I wanted to do some shopping for me.

Instead decided to take the kids to visit Mom who just happened to have a Dentist appointment near my place. In an attempt to spend more time with her I asked if she wanted to go to Hello Kitty Carnival and she said "sure" while the two kids in the back of me said "YEAY!"

Since I felt a bit unsure how the traffic would be on a Saturday afternoon in the 405, I chose to drive from Torrance to Santa Monica via side streets. This was the perfect time for the kids to snooze a naptime and mom too apparently.

As I turned into the now familiar street I noticed that the parking for the event is a lot closer to the park vs the actual place...tons of people were walking. I asked the parking attendant if I could try to find a place closer because of the 2 kids and a senior with me (sorry just a little white lie). He let us pass through and lucky for us we found the best spot...just across the entrance.

Yes I was excited...mainly because I didn't think I would find myself there again..and on a weekend. Not even the sureness of a huge crowd deterred me from going at least just one more time. This time dragging the two kids and my mom....hehehehe.

First thing we did as we were walking towards the entrance was to take a picture with

the Hello Kitty-rized Smart car (yes I would totally drive that around proudly)

Just look at Rj's excited face...

Then just as we were finishing up taking a second shot I heard a familiar voice say "Look there's Ate Mahal." followed by a "Hey what are you doing here?" As I turned around to see who it was I saw my cousins April, Ron and Carlo. And I let out my excited scream (the one I've been holding in, yea that one). I remember April messaging me via FB re: admission price for the event and of course I share the info. That's probably how the event got into my"unconscious brain" that morning...yea thats it...

(hey look April and Mae)

As we got closer I could feel my excitement and anticipation rising as I heard the beat of music coming from inside...and it was like going there for the first time again!!!

the "kids" couldn't wait to get in there...

The people...they were everywhere, and the music...WOW!! Felt like I was entering a club and was fighting the urge to dance since I was holding two little hands. Mommy mode kicked in and our first trip was the potty room.

Not sure if I've mentioned before in the the previous posts but the porta potties were the the "swanky" kind. Yes I took a picture of it...(from trip#1)

And no, the pot was not made of gold, but what a cool idea!

On our way to the potty, we came across Yogurtland where they were giving away bags and got a couple of those...perfect for each kid to place their winnings later.

Those things were gone in like 60 seconds because they were free :)

Second stop was here....

To get 40 tickets (20 for each kid) now the real smile of Rj shows

did I mention the crowd? Woow!

The two longest lines were the entrance to go in the Small Gift Pop Up Shop and Face Painting. Good thing none of us were interested in either. I wanted to go into the shop but not a good idea with the two small kids in tow. They would not have lasted the 1 hour wait in line for either one.

So instead I took them to the Mascot Scoop game.

then the Mini Golf

where they both had so much fun

to the Carnival type games

(where everyone gets some sort of prize)

Dough toss

Spin and Win (Celeste got 1st prize)

Rj got 3rd

like the game from Price is Right

Thought about this, but couldn't justify to myself the price

if you got one in red you got to get the pink one too

Celeste's face is classic

Then I spied this

which led to this...

Rj as Badtz Maru


and of course Celeste choose Hello Kitty

And what character do you think I was?

You will have to wait a bit longer to see it...a little suspense isn't bad.

And now the Eats (if you know me then you know I follow food)

Part of the fun (for me at least) in going here is finding out what food truck would be there. I found out that Buttermilk will be here from 1130-130p (probably another reason why I'm here)

But when we arrived at 230pm this is all that I saw...

so close but no cigar...

Alas my sadness was short lived because 4 more food trucks arrived with the promise of other yummy treats to try out...hooray!

What caught my eye were...

and the winner: Bacon Grilled Cheese & Beef Sliders from Vizzi truck. The popcorn was...interesting

One last picture before leaving

Good Times & Good Food with Great Friends

2010-11-21T22:08:00.000-08:00

Ryan and I received an invitation from one of his really good friends for Sunday Brunch at Terranea...adults only. We jumped at that chance like it was a Hot Potato. This barkada of his have known each other before everyone got married and had kids. After the single life and everyone started having their own families, we would only get to see each other during baby showers or our childrens' birthdays. So having no kids was a rare chance and a great excuse to have some quality time and catch up with each other. And the location was Terranea which is a resort up in Palos Verdes. To say the views were breath taking is not enough...grand and majestic might come close.

Maybe out of excitement Ryan and I were the first ones there...which gave me a chance to play wanna-be-photographer with my pink camera and iPhone...hehehe

one of the breath taking views while driving up Palos Verdes

Some of the Time Share Villas available at Terranea

Courtyard

Balcony view on the way to the elevators

One of the three restaurants found in Terranea

The waiting area

Buffett Area

Terrace View of the Swimming Pool

Started off with a Mimosa

**********************************

Just some of the food at the Buffett

because they were so cute

Our gracious hosts: Lisa and Gary

Sharon and George

Sheila and Ray

the complete Barkada

Katie and Lisa: Cheers!

Alfie and Mary

Katie and John

goofing around by the wines

Complete Group Shot

After getting our hungry tummies taken cared of and catching up with each other we went out to the back of Terranea to enjoy the views and more fun times and stories to tell...

One of the many pool areas plus the Private Beach Access beyond that

taken with the self timer

the Beauties

the Brauns

at the Lobby

because I thought it was pretty

the view from the Lobby as the guys were waiting for Valet

***

Thank You Again to Lisa and Gary for such a great time!!

Day #2 :Sanrio's 50th Anniversary

2010-11-19T05:14:00.000-08:00

Monday couldn't seem to arrive fast enough. I was waiting all weekend for it. Just about the only Monday I was so happy to greet...because this was the day I was going to take Celeste to the Sanrio Celebration.

I was so happy getting ready in the morning for our afternoon together...felt like we were going to Disneyland. In a way it kind of was. I wonder if I will ever get to visit Sanrio Land? Hmmmm.

I went to get Celeste from school only to find her still napping but she woke up a few seconds after I was just staring at her as if she knew I was there. And I was greeted with her Angelic smile and "I love you Mama!" followed by a big hug...such a sweetie. Got her geared up with her Hello Kitty outfit (of course to match mine) & we were off. This time I knew a less stressful way of getting to our destination which consisted of driving through some neighborhoods with pretty houses to look at...and I was loving the scenery.

We got a good spot to park at since it was a lot less crowded than Friday. We were facing the front entrance. And as soon as we got out of the van Celeste yelled " Mama Hello Kitty!!!" full of excitement. And my heart jumped for joy.

She was oh so happy to pose here

EXCITEMENT

"What's in there?"

A glimpse into the future...possibly

" I want to play NOW!"

I'm not so good with action shots

"No more pics Mama!"

she continues to protest

finally made it the last hole

face painting

PhotoBooth App on the iPhone

Celeste was afraid to go close...

So...I got one with me taken by one of the staff with apparently a shaky hand :)

she got 3rd place: A red plastic cup

Free Play at Centipede (yea I "helped" her out)

Friends we met along the way...

Mia, Jocelyn and Natalie arrives

Celeste with the Bean

the two cuties

Meeting of great minds

my attempt at candid shots

Vizzi Food Truck: they had Bacon Grilled Cheese on the menu

Decisions Decisions

Playing Spin and Win: where everyone wins a prize

Me So Hungry Food Truck was the winning choice for dinner

NomNomNomNom!!

The Duke with some Sweet Potato Fries ( I eat you now!)

"Its an honor just to be nominated"

What's in your mouth Celeste?

Can we take it home Mama?

I love Hello Kitty, See!

Come follow me home. You can sit on Kuya's car seat ok?

Yea...I coughed up a lung for this...its not like we need all our lobes right?

So Totally worth the trip the second time around. Got to meet friends (finally), the look on Celeste's face were priceless. These are the times where I wish I had a built in Flip Video in my brain so I can just replay it all over again and not miss a thing. Thank you to Mia and Jenny for meeting up with me. So who's up for round 3? Anyone...anyone...Bueller? Bueller?

Hello Santa Monica...Hello Kitty...

2010-11-16T07:25:00.000-08:00

I've been "following" Sanrio oh since maybe I was about 8ish and been a fan ever since. I remember the moment I first laid eyes on a Sanrio store. I was still back in Philippines, roaming some mall with my Mom, Papa Ding and my brother Chester. It was the bright primary colors of red and blue that got my attention from afar. Of course I just zeroed into the windows displaying all the wonderful things Sanrio has. My first love was Little Twin Stars, Kiki & Lala (odd names but ok) then there was My Melody. I remember learning how to draw her with her one ear down. Through the years I've only indulged my Sanrio addiction with stationaries (that I never really used & still wrapped in plastic) and those ever so cute Pens and Pencils and Pencil boxes and Erasers Oh My! And how could I possibly forget those plastic wallets which were the perfect size for storing our school friends' school wallet sized pictures that we traded like baseball cards!! Oh memories.

I remember the first time I ever skipped class (Jr High)...it was the last day of school...it was all planned out perfectly. We leave right after lunch and that would give us enough time to go "visit" the Sanrio Store on Redondo Beach Blvd and still make it to the bus stop to make it home on time...like nothing ever happened...hehehehe. I was so nervous along with my three other Filipino friends (Gigi, Joann and Thea - oh they are all on FB too "Hi"). As soon as we made it through the wired fence that kept the rest of the students in we made a run for it.....as fast as we could. My heart beating in my head I felt a pull on my shirt and I for sure thought it was a teacher or some staff that was trying to stop me...I had to fight the urge not piss on my pants due to fear. And as I turned my head to see who it was...I found my shirt caught in one of the neighboring house's fence!!! oh the relief!!!

Fast forward to the present time...and Sanrio is now 50 years old!!! WOW!!! Kind of makes sense because Hello Kitty just turned 30 something last year and THAT WAS A BLAST too!!

Thanks to FB and me following Sanrio through FB and checking out their website every once in awhile ( I swear I am not a stalker hehehe) I discovered that there was going to be a week+some days of celebration going on for their 50th anniversary here good ol' Santa Monica...YEAY!!! Of course I don't remember driving there ever but hey I will do just about anything for Sanrio as long as its my day off. And it just so happens that I was.

Day 1: (Yes day 1 because there will be a day 2) Literally though it was day one to the public. The opening night was the night before (Duh!)

After getting the kiddies into their schools off I went with my Pink Point&Shoot and my trusty Jacob iPhone and headed on to the 405 north I think. Anyway I was thinking "wow the traffic is so light" until right about the LAX area and then it got slow but at least it was not a stand still. Bopping to Kids Bop and learning the actual words to the current songs I finally found my exit. Santa Monica (at least where I was driving by) was gorgeous. The houses reminded me of some East Coast Neighborhoods...and that brought a smile to my mind.

In about 10 or so minutes after exiting I found this:

followed this

and saw this

Be still my beating heart!!!

Oh I think I might have squeeled like a baby pig about to become lechon...so glad that I was by myself...hehehe can't really embarras myself since its just me, myself and I and we all know each other.

What awaits inside was Sanrio Heaven...at least for me.

The Entrance (right about this moment I wished I had the new iPhone so I can take my own pic)

First thing that caught my eye. Funny I had a dream about a Smart car for 4 people the night before...a sign?

Next thing that caught my eye and my tummy...The Eats!!
I truly did squeel and probably hopped a couple of times when I saw this food truck. Been waiting to try it and thank goodness I had cash.

this food truck was offering Vietnamese food. Too bad I wasn't in the mood for some Pho.

And no Line...yeay!

What I saw after getting lunch

Beef & Pork Sliders with Crab balls-all made a happy fun party in my tummy. A little spicy and I'll pay for eating that later

Sat on the picnic table and saw this in front of me...how fun it would be for Celeste to ride that.


And the Beloved Beard Papa...of course it makes perfect sense for them to be here

Yeay until I saw the price...But cute photo prop.

Which way should I go next?

The Games people play

You need to get these to play

Oh so cute mini Golf ( I wonder if Celeste will do this...)

for sure Celeste would like this

I wanted this but you need a ticket first

a fun game...

I watched that lady scoop up like 5 or 6 at a time...WOW!

The object of the game is to scoop as many characters as you can with the water soluble screen

After debating with Mae-self (it was a hard fight buy I won) I went for it and ...

got 10 of these

Headed straight to this activity (there were only a couple of people in line)

The worker at this Tuxedo Sam game really got into the spirit. Each time someone got first prize, she would jump for joy and yell "You won first place Hooray!" I found myself jumping when I got first place. I just loved her enthusiasm.

My Loot!! In every game you play you get something. So everyone is a winner.

A definite day 2 is a must...with Celeste and some new friends to meet.

Celeste's 3rd Birthday Celebration: What is a birthday all about?

2010-11-14T07:51:00.000-08:00

From having the two kiddies I noticed that they became more aware of how special the word "birthday" is right about when they hit year 2. This was the time when they really had fun opening presents and was also the time when they started to have ideas of what they want for their celebrations.

As adults we know its to celebrate the day we were born. For kids it maybe for the gifts that they receive...not the actual gift but I think its that GET a gift or two and more. As mom I love the process of coming up with a theme and then creating it.

Together with Ryan we made a decision that party kid friendly activities is a MUST for Celeste's 3rd birthday not just a jumper and he made it happen! Fun games delivered with a big smile...

Instead of having a Pinata he made a "PABITIN" with Silly Bands as prices and

had the kids in their appropriate age groups

Birthday Girl very in tuned with her Cupcake

got EARS? Poor Dopey can't hear any more

THE DANCE OFF

And the winners get to have a picture with the host

Camille

Cinderella

Captain America

Joia & Alayna

MUSICAL CHAIRS

Where everyone is a winner

Chloe

Ryan with Ryan

Batman AKA Brendon

Maya

Emmari

Seth

Christian

Ryan & Ryan

Madison

Tinkerbelle AKA Libby


Batman AKA Brendon & Spiderman AKA Daniel

Bella

Joia & Russell

Now if you thought games are just for kids...YOU THOUGHT WRONG!

Not in this party...we work hard and apparently we play hard too.

at first there were more than 10...

and the guests dressed up as "adults" were acting their part

now we are getting the hang of it...HANDS UP IN DA AIR!! LIKE YOU JUST DON'T CARE

oh oh...someone's holding a chair and someone's already reserving her seat. I'm not gonna name names...but they know who they are hehehehe

its getting kind of tight...

Planning and Scheming...and Andrea too


and now they pay attention to instructions

Dora AKA Michelle

Mario AKA Dan

Zinna Baby dressed up as an Off Duty 4000 Nurse

Karen wearing the same costume as Zinna Off Duty 4000 Nurse

Andrea dressed up as One Happy Silly Band Winner

Jewel dressed up as Just One Kisser

Eloisa AKA Rex and the grand prize winner of the Musical Chairs

the host/MC/Dj gets a prize too

"Be our guest" here is the link (flickr.com) to some more pics of our guests

family pic

Wonder Baby AKA Bianca

thank goodness she ate something

Blowing the cake

her smile says it all

Our family of 4

Its my birthday!!!

I must say though based on the smiles on the faces I see in the pics (and this is just some) I think its safe to say that the guests had a fun time...and that was the point...FUN!!!

Now my question to myself is...how do I top this? hehehehe

Celeste's 3rd Birthday Celebration: Part 2

2010-11-13T08:26:00.000-08:00

The day has finally arrived...

and started off pretty well.

The Ryan and my Brother In Law Jerry got to working with covering the walls of the garage with the red plastic covers. I was so glad that my brother in law was there to help out Ryan because I would have been of no help and he would have to have done that task all by his lonesome.

The Jumper arrives on time along with the rented tables and chairs

My cousin April & Ron arrives with the long awaited birthday cake.

The Seven Dwarfs

Finally Snow White takes her place in the dessert table

The Celebrant relaxing with Nanay Juliana

Her smile says it all and so totally worth all the preparation

Snow White Mama and Celeste 2010

Celeste's 3rd Birthday Celebration: Part 1

2010-11-12T07:42:00.000-08:00

Finally got the pictures in the right file in the right computer...sure took me long enough.

I'm going to start this with my 2nd favorite part...details details...its is after all what it is all about in my head).

Inspired by the party blogs I've seen, I some how got it in my mind to creating a dessert/candy presentation table. With my limited creative exposure and crazy ideas I spent the night before the party with no sleep and in the garage until 0430...when I felt that I had done all that I could. Here are some of what I came up with. Excuse the background since the walls were not covered until the morning sun came out.

Printed out these pictures and placed them in red and black frames to put on the mantle with the Happy Birthday Sign I made earlier in the week. The water bottle wrappers my Sister In Law made for me...love it!

Instead of using coolers we just cleared out the fridge in the garage and filled it with what else..DRINKS!

The Goody bags that I tried to make age & gender appropriate

The Candy Table (and yes I did try some...I mean one)

before the drinks were poured into the containers & just love those disposable kiddie cups with lids and straws from Target


Kid's Menu Signs

Let the party ...BEGIN!

If there were 3

2010-11-12T06:15:00.001-08:00

This is what it would be ;)

Sent from my iPhone

In Memory of Tatay Harry

2010-11-03T13:13:00.000-07:00

I know we are all feeling a little bit sad,
That we've lost our Grandpa, our friend and our dad
Together we have cried an ocean of tears
As we feel so empty and hold many fears

But Tatay Harry would want us to know he's in a good place
And that he watching us all with a smile on his face
As we have made him so proud, as proud as can be
That he has raised such a beautiful and special family

Thinking back now I really must say
I feel lucky and privileged to have known Tatay to this day
For in my life, you have played a special part
The memories I will treasure and keep close to my heart

For me I am glad my little Rj he got to meet
And for all of us, be grateful, his life is now complete
To each one of us he has loved and cared
And a family, be thankful for the good times we shared

Although he has gone we will always be together
And his spirit will live on each one of us forever
When you look to the sky, look for the brightest star
As that will be Tatay looking down on us from afar

And now I would like to thank the good Lord above
For blessing us with our Grandpa with his kindness and love
Dear God, if it is not too much fuss
Take extra special care of our Grandpa as he is very dear to us

Tatay, if you are listening say a prayer for us every day
Be sure to protect us and guide us on our way
We know when God called you, you had to go
But we want you to know Tatay we will miss you and love you so

The Truth

2010-10-26T05:19:00.001-07:00

Truths For Mature Humans

1. I think part of a best friend's job should be to immediately clear your computer history if you die.

2. Nothing sucks more than that moment during an argument when you realize you're wrong.

3. I totally take back all those times I didn't want to nap when I was younger.

4. There is great need for a sarcasm font.

5. How the h*ll are you supposed to fold a fitted sheet?

6. Was learning cursive really necessary?

7. Map Quest really needs to start their directions on # 5. I'm pretty sure I know how to get out of my neighborhood.

8. Obituaries would be a lot more interesting if they told you how the person died.

9. I can't remember the last time I wasn't at least kind of tired.

10. Bad decisions make good stories.

11. You never know when it will strike, but there comes a moment at work when you know that you just aren't going to do anything productive for the rest of the day.

12. Can we all just agree to ignore whatever comes after Blue Ray? I don't want to have to restart my collection...again.

13. I'm always slightly terrified when I exit out of Word and it asks me if I want to save any changes to my ten-page technical report that I swear I did not make any changes to.

14. I keep some people's phone numbers in my phone just so I know not to answer when they call.

15. I think the freezer deserves a light as well.

16. I disagree with Kay Jewelers. I would bet on any given Friday or Saturday night more kisses begin with Miller Lite than Kay.

17. I wish Google Maps had an "Avoid Ghetto" routing option.

18. I have a hard time deciphering the fine line between boredom and hunger.

19. How many times is it appropriate to say "What?" before you just nod and smile because you still didn't hear or understand a word they said?

20. I love the sense of camaraderie when an entire line of cars team up to prevent a jerk from cutting in at the front. Stay strong, brothers and sisters!

21. Shirts get dirty. Underwear gets dirty. Pants? Pants never get dirty, and you can wear them forever.

22. Sometimes I'll look down at my watch 3 consecutive times and still not know what time it is.

23. Even under ideal conditions people have trouble locating their car keys in a pocket, finding their cell phone, and Pinning the Tail on the Donkey - but I'd bet everyone can find and push the snooze button from 3 feet away, in about 1.7 seconds, eyes closed, first time, every time!

24. The first testicular guard, the "Cup," was used in Hockey in 1874 and the first helmet was used in 1974. That means it only took 100 years for men to realize that their brain is also important.     (Ladies.....Quit Laughing.)

Sent from my iPhone

My little girl turns 3

2010-10-23T23:49:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to our dearest Celeste!

Its true what they say...time does go by fast when you are having fun.
As I think back the past 3 years went by like a blink of an eye.
I remember when I blogged about Rj's 3rd Birthday and now it's Celeste's turn.
I remember when you first learned to walk and
making sounds with you shoes @ the Drs
and who can forget
the video Papa made of the day she entered the world
it still brings tears to my eyes.

Here is a montage of pics I made

(first time ever I've done this so its kind of rough but you get the idea.)

We love you Celeste!

God made Little Girls

2010-10-21T05:41:00.001-07:00

God made the world with

towering trees, majestic

mountains, and restless seas.

Then paused and said,

It needs one more thing....

someone to laugh and

dance and sing.

To walk in the woods and gather

flowers....to commune with

nature in quiet hours."

So God made little girls with

laughing eyes and bouncing curls,

with joyful hearts,

and infectious smiles,

enchanting ways and

feminine wiles.

And when He'd completed

the task He'd begun,

He was pleased and proud

of the job He'd done.

For the world, when seen

through a little girl's eyes

greatly resembled Paradise.

Sent from Mae's iPhone

5 days to go and counting....

2010-10-20T15:27:00.000-07:00

The party preparation for Celeste's birthday is in full swing and just like me every year...I didn't really get into it until this week. But things seem to be moving along alright. Yesterday I was stressing about making the birthday garland and water bottle labels. I knew how to do the garland and choose to tackle that first.

Now this water bottle label that I've seen and wanted to use one for the longest time had me scratching my head. I took apart one to measure and I could have made it by hand but that just seemed too time consuming. And then I delved into the world of Etsy.com-Whoa! I should have gone there months ago...so many ideas and only one birthday girl. After wrecking my brain in how to make one in the computer I gave up. Lucky for me my Sister In Law Kat came to my rescue-Yeay!!!

Another relative of mine, my cousin, April is making the cupcakes and the birthday cake...yum. Here's a sneak peak - isn't it cute?!

And the 7 Seven Dwarfs arrived yesterday too...thank goodness for Amazon.com

It's all coming together

One Checked off My Bucket List

2010-10-13T12:53:00.000-07:00

It all started with Red Velvet Cake Balls from a Nestie posting on the Nest.com about 2 years ago. I was intrigued and curious, but too afraid to try it out. So I shared the info to my SisterInLaw Kat -she can do it, she can bake. And they were heavenly good.

This is how I discovered Bakerella. I've been reading and following her blog for inspiration and just to see the wonderful yummy treats. I even tried to make the Hello Kitty Cakepops in the hopes of having them for Celeste's 2nd birthday last year. Unfortunately they turned out looking more like a bird vs Hello Kitty ...See!

But they were yummy!

Today was the day I get to meet the blogger that has inspired me to tap into my novice baking skills again. You see her cakepops became a huge sensation and in addition to being in Martha Stewart's TV show she finally has a book about Cakepops...Yeay! When I found out that she had a book coming out I was ecstatic...what just topped that feeling was she was coming to California during her book tour...to South Coast Plaza to be exact....Aaaaargh!!!

As I looked at the calendar, it was on a Monday..and I work every Monday. But I had to try and try and asked and asked people if they could work for me. And thank goodness someone agreed (thank you to Ate Julie).

Sunday night it started to hit me that I was going to get the book and meet the author too. Got the kids ready for school and as soon as I got the last one in, I headed home and got ready. I mean you know the usual-put my face on stuff.

Driving there I was trying to contain myself and found a way to keep my excitement from getting to me...turned the radio on KOST 103.5 and sang my heart out with the songs...LOL! Thank goodness I was alone in the car.

The parking was lot was empty but then again it was only 10ish on a Monday morning. Found a good spot and off I went. Where William Sonoma is located is a familiar spot for me because of Lawry's Carvery (mental note: must eat lunch there later). 

From the outside it seemed quiet...

but when I got in...

OH BOY! 

There were a lot of people gathered around the register area. 

I went around, found the book

and went straight to the register. After paying for it they gave us instructions to go the will call table to get our number so we know where our place will be in the line. 

I am number 59...wheee!! 

Looking around there was probably a good 50 or so people. 

As the time got closer to 12 noon I realized the number had doubled.

Next thing I knew there she was standing smiling at all of us.

 I had to make sure I didn't make a fool of myself and scream or yelp or snort.

 The first part was the Q&A for anyone that had questions. I was just in awe of all the questions and tips she passed on. No wonder my balls didn't look right...LOL...and they kept falling off the stick!

After the Q & A, we were all instructed to go outside of the store and line up according to our handy dandy numbers. Thank goodness for those numbers. As we all waited patiently and excitedly Bakerella's Mom was taking pictures of us while waiting in line. The staff had us all go in groups of 15 each time. I was wondering how I was going to get a picture with Bakerella since I was alone. I was feeling alittle embarassed to strike up a conversation with the girls around me because from the stories I heard they've all made cakepops more than once and I've only done it once and gave up. My prayers were answered as I entered the store again this time in the book signing line. WS prepared that we would all be bringing cameras and had a store employee assigned to be the photographer...whew! Being a softy as I got closer and closer I felt a bit teary eyed...not sure why...had to go and figure out a way to stop the tears before getting closer. I didn't know what to say, my mind was blank. As my turn was next I just told myself to go with the flow. And I did what naturally came to me when I stood next to her, I went to shake her hands & she in turn gave me a hug! OH MAH GAWD!!! I hugged Bakerella!!! Hehehehe! 

We took our picture :)

 I still didn't know what to say & was greatful that she knew what to say...she asked me if my name is Hawaiian because part of my name sounds Hawaiian (Mahalo = thank you) And I knew the answer to this question. As she started to write my name on the book I remember hearing myself blurting out something like "I'm probably the only Mahalia you'll meet this side of the Mississippi." How lame is that! Ugh! In any case she chuckled and I said my Thank yous again.

Mission accomplished!

A Sunday Morning Conversation with Celeste

2010-09-26T08:22:00.001-07:00

Celeste: Mama I want to watch Oohontas
Mama: Oohantas?
Celeste: yes POOhontas
Mama: oh Pocahantas!
Celeste: yes Oohontas
Mama: Celeste it's PO-KA hontas
Celeste: Poo-Taah hontas!
Mama: no it's Po-Ka, say Po - Kah
Celeste: Poo-Taah, Pootaahontas
(apparently she can't say her Ks yet)

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Day 3 of 3

2010-09-06T06:15:00.001-07:00

"I wake up in da murnin' feeling like P Diddy." and that is how da
song starts but I feel more like staying home vs day 3 of 3 of my 12
hours of work. What is more important: family time or money? The
answer is Family-always. But there are bills to pay, a possible abode
to save for & stuff to buy ( ie. food & clothes on Childrens' backs) -
no not handbags or shoes or new outfits-those days are long gone. Yea
I guess I did a little growing up. The alarm went off so I guess it's
time!
Happy Labor Day to ya'll!!
And a note to my kids: in case your reading this after I am long gone
just wanted to say " I love you!"

Sent from my iPhone

The Pink Glove Video

2010-08-14T10:54:00.000-07:00

There happened to be a trend that hit the hospitals across the USA...I'm talking about the Pink Glove Dance Videos. Its all in YouTube...the videos of other hospitals. Pink Glove I think was started for Breast Cancer Awareness but that ribbon no matter what color has represented all kinds of Cancer.
SO of course my hospital also did one...it started out as a contest. Each participating unit was given less than a minute to perform. And we all had to incorporate the Pink Glove in it somewhere.
My unit (4000) got some volunteers and lucky for us one of us knew some dance moves. After the hours of practicing in my garage and the nightly practices at the Hospital Lobby we final got to tape our dance.
August 13 was the day all the videos were to be shown and the final cut of the Hospital Pink Glove video too. The winners of the contest were to be announced at noon. I made sure I was there and that I wasn't going to be alone. As the three categories were to be announced (Best Choreography, Best use of Costumes/Props & Best Over All Performance) my heart started to skip a beat. Deep inside I wanted to win but all the other videos looked so good too. As the Nominees and winners for the first 2 categories came and went my heart started to sink because I didn't think we could get any nomination. The last category nominees were announced and lo and behold we were nominated and my heart stopped. I was thinking " Well it was an honor just to be nominated."
But they said "Unit 4000 is the winner of the best overall performance!"
and I said... "YEA!!!!" (deep inside: Holy Poop we won)
hehehehehe

Someone is going to have a birthday soon....

2010-08-10T12:08:00.000-07:00

With August here and the start of the new school year looming around the corner I couldn't help but think that my little girl will be turning 3 soon...too soon it seems like. SO of course with that in mind I am in the works for the next theme...looks like its NOT going to be HK. After stumbling into the Disney site for some fun ideas...I have a very strong suspicion its going to be a ToyStory3 theme with Jessie the CowGirl as the main character...after all Celeste is a girl :) hehehe...
The invite is somewhat already premade in the computer...Mama is in a party planning mode!

Celeste's Phrases

2010-07-27T08:30:00.001-07:00

" Are we there yet?"
" What happened?"
" I don't know."
"Mama, I don't want to watch that!"
"Mam, are you going to work today?"
-Celeste (2 3/4 years old) July 2010

Sent from my iPhone

Happy Birthday to my Brother!

2010-04-22T06:46:00.001-07:00

Here's a story to tell...about 32 years ago there was a lot of
excitement going on in my family. Being only six at the time I wasn't
paying much attention since I was vacationing with my Lola Angeles &
Lolo Joventino along with my cousins in a province near some volcano
in the Philippines. I remember hearing them say " Its a healthy baby
boy!" & oh the happiness was felt by everyone. About a couple if days
later, I came home to find my mom holding what seemed like a small
package wrapped in a blanket. I thought it was a surprise for me like
a gift, but when I saw what it was I didn't understand...it wasn't a
doll...it was a REAL baby so tiny & red faced from crying. I didn't
like it cuz he was always with MY mommy. Through the 32 years we've
grown together through hard times & a lot of great times ... and I've
learned that Yes my brother is a gift - one of my many precious gifts
from God & I thank Him for giving me a brother to tease, to pick on,
to harass, to irritate, make fun of, to make me laugh, to remind me
that I'm not alone, to have as a confidant, talk to, to listen to,
and most importantly to love cuz he's not just a brother he's also a
best friend....Happy Birthday to the my one & only brother @ Chester
Maranan!!! (on a side note: Thank you Lord for giving me only one cuz
I think I can only handle one ... LOL!)

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HAPPY NEW YEAR 2010!

2010-01-01T08:45:00.000-08:00

2009 is now just a memory, the good were good & I hope I learned from the bad. I leave the tears we've shed & remember the laughter that were shared....looking forward to a new promise of a brand spanking new year....just keep looking forward towards 2010: there's so much in store for us alll...CHEERS to a FRUITFUL & HAPPY YEAR!!!!

From a mother's heart

2009-10-18T04:12:00.000-07:00

Allison Zicree celebrated her first birthday on May 13, 2009. She passed her one year exam with flying colors. A month later her mom noticed that her active and lively girl was becoming listless after 3 days of fever. She stopped crawling, standing and bouncing. On June 12th, Allison's mom took her to the emergency room, and never left. Allison was diagnosed with Leukemia AML M7. The only way Allison will be a survivor is by finding a bone marrow donor.

follow her story: www.teamallisonz.blogspot.com

****************************************************************

October 17,2009:

"At 7:35 tonight Little Allison grew her wings and went to Heaven. it was peaceful and painfree for her. She was surrounded by friends and family and lots of love during her final day on earth. Thank you all for your endless thoughts and prayers for our angel baby." written by Nicole Zicree.

Baby Allison as sad and tearful we are that you have left this Earth, I feel that you are in a much safer and comfortable place...no more pain, no more suffering. You are our newest angel to watch over us. I pray that your parents Nicole and Shaun find comfort in knowing that you are in Jesus arms once again.
I may never had gotten the chance to feel your arms around me or hear your laughter but you've managed to touch my heart through your pictures. You were a fighter and a courageous bouncing baby full of love and happiness. In the short time that you've been here with us, you have touched and inspired many of us...rest in peace Angel Baby, rest in peace.

Let the madness begin...

2009-10-09T23:27:00.001-07:00

Guess who is turning 2 in a couple of weeks? Oh yeah only a couple of weeks...and I (we) just decided to celebrate the upcoming birthday with a party. I tried to avoid doing it at the house due to parking restraints for guests but since I didn't prepare financially so that I could get the rooms at Torrance Civic Center I will have to settle for the house in hopes that my guests will eventually forgive me. I am adding in the invites about the rules of where to & not to park. One of the negative things about being in a gated community.
Today its official...I finished the guests lists and ready to slap on the addressed stickers so that I can mail them off tonight. With the help of Costco and Julie's suggestions (Thanks) the invite was finalized to be Hello Kitty themed with round circles of red, pink, green, yellow and blue-not too girly.
Next on the list is to order the cake, reserve the tables & chairs and air jumper. Hopefully there is a Hello Kitty one...otherwise I will have to settle for Disney Princessess but its still going to be a HK themed party...shoot Celeste & I already have the shirts to wear-HK of course.
Check out what I got for me while "visiting" the Sanrio store...
I am planning on not doing balloons this year and make these really cute tissue pompoms that I saw a couple of my internet/FB friends did for their parties. They got the instructions from Martha Stewart. I'll try one out and see how hard it is...some how doing it DIY seems to be the in thing lately for parties...could be due to the recession getting out the creativity out of us.
Its all a labor of love...basically it will take time so time for me to start...let the madness begin. :)

My Lolo Apin

2009-09-25T06:39:00.000-07:00

Serafin Maranan
RIP September 25, 2009

He Will Always

Be Remembered
As we share
the stories
and the memories
of how he lived
his fruitful life
and how very much
he meant to all of us

Celeste @ 6:30am on a Friday

2009-09-18T06:31:00.001-07:00

Sent from my iPhone

Back to school 9/8/2009

2009-09-09T10:31:00.000-07:00

Back to school started yesterday.

Celeste had been gone for a whole week last week due to mysterious rashes that showed up Monday morning continued to get worse up to Wed. Took her to the Md but they couldn't tell me what it was but was at least able to tell me what it was not: Chicken Pox. The rashes were never itchy, no fevers, no irritability (not more than usual), still had the same funny personality and ate the same amount as before. I kept her out because it just looked so bad and I didn't want the other parents in the daycare to get worried that their child might be exposed to something. I used Benadryl cream and Hydrocortisone for the areas in her face that she did scratch after waking up from her sleep/naps. By Friday it was almost gone and Monday came and she was back in school.

Rj started his first day official day in Kindergarten. He had been slowly transitioning into the new area through out the summer break in the daycare. Most of his friends are there and we already know the teacher Miss Monica. I got his uniforms from Target, tried them on Saturday night and he liked it. Monday morning came and we were both happy and excited about starting Kinder after all according to him "I am a big boy now mama."
It seems like it was only last year that we started him in the first daycare at Children's Place and now he is in Kindergarten...time does fly fast.
Thank goodness both kids like going to school-it sure makes it alot easier on me when I leave them.

Rj with his Kinder friends

=================================

Eating breakfast in school

My Mommy turns 60

2009-08-20T21:34:00.000-07:00

Mom turned 60 last Monday but we didn't get to celebrate it until today, Thursday mainly for 2 reasons: #1: Julie arrived back from Cambodia on Monday, #2: I am off tonight.

I put together a simple menu of fish dishes, and pancit for long life. A little cake here, a little singing there and it was a little party to celebrate the most influential and inspiring person in my life...my Mom.

Happy Birthday Mom!!!

Notice Rj's hand sign....he has inherited it from my Mom :)
********************************

The Happy Party #2 Cake from TLJ on Sepulveda
had blueberries inside-Yummy!

*********************************************

the little decorations after the kids were done with it....
it was hard to bite! But not too sweet.

*******************************************************

Celeste tried to or maybe did touch the cake....
hehehehe

******************************************

More food..

She's back

2009-08-18T01:11:00.001-07:00

She's back

I am doing the happy dance because my sister is back. Wooohooo!!!! Now
I can breathe a sign of relief. Looking forward to hearing about her
adventures soon. I'll leave her be to get over whatever got her sick &
jetlag. Besides I've got work until Thursday
& the kids stayed home due to Celeste not feeling well - probably cuz
her molars are coming out. I saw 2 the other day. Poor thing can't get
comfy.

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Car Fire

2009-08-17T09:34:00.001-07:00

While on our way to Glendale, on 110S by Adams St. we saw this. It's a Saturn. Hopefully the driver got out & no one was hurt. A few seconds later a fire truck was at the scene. Thank goodness we were going the opposite way....Scary!!!!

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The Americana @ Brand

2009-08-16T22:47:00.000-07:00

Sunday morning started out late for us because we were still recovering from the food filled birthday party from Saturday (pics can found here: Camie's 18th Birthday )
We all wanted to go somewhere but didn't know where until I remembered this place that I've heard from my gal pals from the Nest...the Americana @ Brand. Its an open air mall. I missed the get together they had and was still curious. Lucky for me Ryan was game to drive that far. Its in Glendale.

Since we were in the neighborhood we visited this place finally...

And these are what we found at the Americana to keep us entertained:

The view of the train from the parking lot

Of course after a long car ride with kids where would be the first thing we would look for but the restrooms. Quickly looking at the directory we headed down to the said location in hopes that Rj makes it..and he did. After that we discovered this:

HOW COOL IS THIS ??? I would like one in our home :)

I couldn't resist not taking a pic of this ensemble...I can dream right?

The fountain that happens to have ...

a water show at 4pm

Waiting patiently to ride the train

The original plan was for Rj & I to ride the train to take us to the other side of the place where Ryan & Celeste would meet us. Well wouldn't you know it that no one got out of the stop we were at and the train was full...so we still had to walk to the other side to get on the train. It all worked out because the 4 of us got to ride it together. It was a 5 minute ride that basically goes through the whole mall. It was cute and the best part was that it was free.

The Americana has apartments for sale on top and the stores (high end ones too ie. Barney's, Tiffany's & Armani Exchange) are at the bottom. Gorgeous lay out with grass areas and a covered playground that happend to be a HUGE hit with my kids.

On summer nights during the week they have concerts on the grass area. Lucky for us there was a band singing Michel Buble-ey songs...kept me entertained and ...

got Celeste to dance.

A Pinkberry Family moment:
it may not look like the boys didn't enjoy it but trust me-they did.

Please pray for Julie

2009-08-15T02:25:00.000-07:00

Dearest Family,
I just an email from Julie's pastor that she is sick. They mentioned that it might be food related. She is still in Cambodia.
Last I heard from her in FB was that she had a fever. Oh geesh I feel so helpless. I was dreading this kind of news because I can't help her - she is so far away.
She is suppose to be returning home sometime next week.
Please add her to your prayers that she is ok and will be home safe soon.
-Mahalia

Short notice family dinner

2009-08-08T12:59:00.000-07:00

With the short visit of my Dad and Mama Lit to Los Angeles, I was able to squeeze in an impromptu dinner with my Santos family. I was so touched that most of them made it inspite of their busy schedules (ie. jobs and school). Thank you for taking the time to spend time with us. I feel so blessed and loved...just hoped they liked my "cooking" hehehehe.

Preview of our Family Photo session

2009-06-10T01:03:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday we went to Travel town to meet up with a friend of mine who is a photographer and did our family photo shoot. I wanted to catch the childhood of the kids before they grew up too fast. I also wanted to have them take pictures of the kids with the grandparents. We had fun time. The following pictures are the previews my friend posted on her blog : www.jlvphotographyblog.blogspot.com
I am so happy at how these turned out that I am so looking forward to seeing the rest with the grandparents. Enjoy!

End of the month

2009-05-31T12:44:00.000-07:00

Its been an interesting month for sure. Here are some highlights:
1. Mother's Day: We visited Grandma Gloria before heading out to the Martin's House. Celeste unfortunately fell asleep in the car so it was only Rj that came down the car. He prayed beautiful at Grandma & Grandpa's website. Then asked why they were under the soil. He did mention remembering Tita Tessie's funeral and asked if it was the same thing.

Enjoyed the company and entertainment with family. Celeste was very interested in the dogs. She especially enjoyed playing with Sonic who was pretty calm with her. Someday we hope to get another dog. Zeena showed her "Bang" trick but for some reason was confused when Tita Susan tried it on her. Of course Guitar Hero was in the house too. Awesome time!
2. With the low census at work I've been getting alot more days/nights off than usual. I used that time to be with the kids of course. Managed to get see some new movies. Even saw Nights at the Museum with just Rj and me. Its just amazing how he can sit through the whole movie at a young age. This time he was really paying attention to the movie and would ask me questions during the movie with a lot more louder voice than usual.
3. Had the scare of my month. I got a call from Mom's work and they told me that she fainted at work and was taken via ambulance to Good Samaritan Hospital. After putting the phone down I found myself unable to think clearly. I found it almost impossible to keep myself together but I did. I called the hospital to find out if she really was there and they couldn't locate her name. They nicely gave me the number to call the other hospital near that area and they too did not have her name in the system. Sitting in the van at the Belmar guest parking while waiting for Julie I found myself thinking "They lost my mom!" Not a good feeling. After calming myself down I called the first hospital and she was in their ER. Spent the rest of the day there until they had to transfer her to Torrance Memorial to further find out if the cause of all this chest pain and fainting were heart related. The following day she was discharged because all the tests were negative...Thank you Lord!! The symptoms of a heart attack on women is not the usual classic signs for men ( chest pain, with numbness to the left arm etc.) Sometimes it can feel like really bad heartburn...
4. There are some changes going on at work due to the changes in the economy so alot of my coworkers are uneasy and nervous. I figure as long we still a job we are doing ok. Personally I think the change will be beneficial to us all-patients and staff.
5. Finally made the jump and got me the iPhone. All the more I am connected to the internet and facebook...hee hee ! Not to mention a gazillions apps of just about anything.

FYI: Rj will be graduating from PreK & the ceremony is on June 19. I didn't even know they had such a thing.

Allelujah!!!

2009-05-22T12:57:00.000-07:00

Thank goodness the internet is back to normal at home. Now I am not stuck using my iPhone to get my net fixes off Facebook and Twitter. Maybe now I can update this blog more often.
Yeay!!!

Easter 2009

2009-04-13T10:55:00.001-07:00

Sorry to say that I didn't really make a big deal about Easter this year. I was planning to at least have the kids go to some egg hunt Saturday but didn't happen. Good thing when I got out of work early Friday night I was able to find prefilled Easter Eggs at Vons (prefilled with candy). I was so relieved because I was dreading putting together those plastic things with candy all by my lonesome. I was hoping to use it either Saturday or Sunday...depending on how the mood was of the rest of the family.
Early Saturday morning I was awaken due to a phone call & Mom was asking to have lunch with us or brunch. At that time the only person that was really awake was Celeste. Once we all got together we headed to LB to pick up Mom and Julie for some Bubba Gump only to realize that there was a grip of peeps for some event and we headed to good ol' Boiling Crab. After dropping off Mom and Julie back to LB Ryan and the kids were in the backseat pretty much knocked out.
Rj started crying for a Spongebob toy after seeing a poster from a Burger King drive through. I choose to ignore it & figure he will get tired and eventually stop. OH NO HE DIDN'T. He kept on going until finally I decided to go the BK near our place. Amazingly the whole time he was crying, Celeste and Ryan continued with their nap.
The next day we were going to have Ryan's family come for dinner. One of his Aunts from Philippines is here with her 2 sons. Sunday morning we went to church then headed back home to prepare not thinking about what to eat for lunch since we had some left over shrimp from Boiling crab. Good thing we had passed by to get some chicken wings & shrimp stuff from this new place Ryan wanted to try because when we got there Mom and Julie were there for lunch. I was not expecting them until dinner since that is what we said the day before. Then Mom told me that she told Ted to come too. In the end of it all we enjoyed the spur of the moment eating frenzy with bacon wrapped chicken liver (a specialty of Daddy Panny) and what ever else we had. I just wish I had more food to share.
The Easter dinner went well with lots of food and a grip of people. The house was ALIVE! Rj helped me hide the 16 prefilled eggs in the backyard. I was thinking there would only be 3 kids-there were more. In any case they were all excited and I at least know that each kid at least got 2 eggs. Too much candy is not good for them anyway. Celeste just had the usual dazed look since I did not prep her on how to look for eggs. She will learn for next year. Plus it was way past her bedtime.

Going for Eggs

Rj made his own Easter hat

There's probably more pictures in Facebook.

Rj's security pillow cover

2009-03-13T11:09:00.000-07:00

I am sure we each had something similar when we were kids- a security something. Mine was a specific pillow and it was more about a specific corner of the pillow that was my security item. I was forced to get rid of it when I was about 10 or so because we were migrating to US and was told I would get a better one-I am still in search.

Now back to Rj. Rj has always had a special place for this one particular pillow cover. Its flowery and made of flannel. It was part of a whole bed sheet set that came with two pillow covers, top and bottom sheet from the internet. Which basically means I can't find it again. When he started going to daycare at the tender age of 17 months he would drag that cover all over the place. He would not sleep anywhere without it. It was so bad that I sacrificed the top sheet to make more smaller versions of the pillow cover for traveling purposes. He too was using the one corner of the pillow to aid in sleeping. He is now 4 years old and one morning decided he was done with the pillow cover & corner. One morning he gave the pillow to me and Ryan and said " I don't need the flower pillow anymore." Ryan and I stood there dumbfounded. We decided to hide it in Celeste's closet in case Rj decides to change his mind. Up to now he has not asked for it since. He is a big boy after all.

a survey

2009-03-01T20:29:00.000-08:00

Copied from Facebook-Thank you Elisha

*****************************************

Copy, paste, and replace with your own answers...

Couples Survey

♥ Fill it out and let's learn about you and your better half!

♥ What are your middle names?
Mine: Carr
His: Allen

♥ How long have you been together?
10 years

♥ How long did you know each other before you started dating?
3 months?

♥ Who asked who out?
I don't remember

♥Who said I love you first?
I think he did

♥ How old are each of you?
Me: 27
Him: 27

♥ Do you have any children together?
2 kids: Rj & Celeste

♥ What about pets?
Daisy (RIP) & Mightydog (RIP)

♥ Did you go to the same schools?
Apparently we did but didn't know it. While I was taking nursing classes in the daytime he was taking environmental classes at night upstairs.

♥ Are you from the same hometown?
Nah

♥ Who is the smartest?
He is

♥ Who is the most sensitive?
I think I am but there are times when I think he is.

♥ Where do you eat out most as a couple?
Before the kids almost everywhere

♥ Where is the furthest you two have traveled together as a couple?
Cancun, Mexico for our honeymoon

♥ Who has the craziest ex?
Probably me-"stalker" guy ew!

♥ Who has the worst temper?
For sure me

♥ Who does the cooking?
This is an easy one to answer: NOT ME!

♥Who is the most social?
Another easy one: For sure HE is. He even talks to the people we sit next to in the movie theatres.

♥ Who is the neat-freak?
None

♥ Who is the most stubborn?
Me for sure

♥ Who wakes up earlier?
Me again

♥ Where was your first date?
I think it was at Mami King but then his cousin was there so does that count? If not it would be at the movies to watch " You got mail."

♥Who has the bigger family?
I think it al evens out

♥Do you get flowers often?
Nah-only on important occasions

♥ Who do you spend the holidays with?
We are married so each others family

♥ Who is more jealous?
That would be Me

♥ Who sings better?
Neither

♥Who does/did the laundry?
Both of us

♥ Who’s better with the computer?
For sure he is

♥ Who drives when you are together?
Ryan does - I stay in the back with the kids

♥ Who picks where you go to dinner?
I do since I am usually the one thats picky

♥ Who is the first one to admit when they’re wrong?
I think he does

♥ Who named your pet?
Daisy I did, Mightydog he did

♥ Who wears the pants in the relationship?
He does

♥ Who has more tattoos?
Let me check I will get back to you.

♥ Who eats more sweets?
I think he does I just have a weakness for soda

♥ Who cries more?
Me

♥ Are you still together?
As far as I know Yes :)

Out & About

2009-02-28T22:10:00.000-08:00

On a rare warm Saturday when all 4 of us were home we headed out early and started off at Wilson Park for some lunch. Met one of Rj's best friends from school and his parents. It was random. Then the kids were off to riding their bikes-well for Celeste it was more like being pushed in the bike. Later we ended up at San Pedro at the Korean Bell. Never been there myself and it had an awesome view. The kids were just happy to be out and about in the fresh air. Lots of people took advantage of the warm breeze and had their kites flying high. On the way to the playground we met one of our good friends, Rezell and her daughter Alexis. She was there for a picnic with her gal pals. On the way out we got abit nosey and came upon the LA Raid show. Apparently they do some re-enactment of the raid and a couple of WWII bombers flew by. All in all a very interesting day-the best part was that we were there as a family. Even had a picnic in the van with some yummy Yoshinoya.

Lola Fe's 80th Birthday

2009-02-28T01:51:00.000-08:00

Lola Fe is one of my favorite Grandmas on the Maranan side of the family. I remember going to their house in the Philippines and playing with my young aunts and uncles in their huge front yard plus they had dogs. It was always such a treat for me to visit them. She is married to my Lolo Apin who is the brother of my grandpa (dad's dad) and also was the classmate of Lolo Mel in dentistry school. The food was good-all you can eat brunch buffet at Luminaria's, the entertainment was hilarious (Great job April!) and the company was the best. I think even my kids had a good time. Rj was so proud when he was the winner of the centerpiece. And Celeste finally warmed up to being with the new people.
Here is the link of pictures taken at the party done by Swanky Photography. I personally think the pics look awesome.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/aprilandron/sets/72157614436532365/

I have a new assistant

2009-02-19T12:20:00.000-08:00

The future looks bright.

Next is to teach her to do laundry & separate whites from colors

Vday turns out to be better than Christmas

2009-02-15T16:10:00.001-08:00

A visit from Nanay Juliana entertained the kids

Oh yeah and my toy from Papa-plus the Wii Fit

Christmas can come twice a year.

Sadly though all I had for him was a couple of home made cards from

me & the kids with their pictures *hangs head in shame*

Parents sneak a trip to Disneyland

2009-02-13T09:52:00.000-08:00

One Thursday Ryan and I skipped work (well it was my day off) to go to Disneyland without the kids. After dropping off both of them to daycare we headed off to the Happiest place on earth with the plans of riding the rides that we can't when the kids are there. Getting off the tram it felt like we were missing something-like we forgot something...strollers perhaps? It has been at least 5 years since we've been to Disneyland without a kid to bring along. To our great surprise the place was not as packed at the Sunday before when we were there with the kids. We headed off to California Adventure and I got tricked (hahah) into riding what looked like not so scary of a ride called Mulholland Madness. While in line I saw two elderly couple that had just finished the ride & I thought to myself "They seem ok so I should be fine." The minute I saw that our cart was going up and up I knew it was not the ride I thought it would be. At least I didn't loose my voice. Finally got to see what the hallaballoh about Toystory Mania and it was worth all of the 10 minute wait. I loved it and wanted to ride again only because my score was lower than Ryan's. I let Ryan ride California Screamin' on his own-after the first ride I was done for the day. I did see kids smaller than me enjoying it. Next we headed off to Disneyland to ride Indiana Jones (which seemed like it was doing alot more shaking than before), Pirates of the Caribbean, a solo ride for Ryan in Thunder Mountain & Space Mountain. By the time Ryan got out of Space Mountain it was raining cats, dogs and a couple of hamsters so we decided to call it a day. We still had time to get the kids from Daycare. Since I was a mommy feeling a bit guilty I got Rj the Toystory mania toy gun and Celeste the Princess Potato Head which I later found out was only the accesories to make your Mr. Potato Head into a Princess-I didn't have Mr. Potato Head to begin with. But she is only 1 and enjoys looks at the frog on the hand and puts the lips in her lips. Both kids enjoyed the surprises and Ryan and I had a great time spending time together - just us.

First trip to Disneyland 2009

2009-02-04T10:36:00.000-08:00

Ryan and I decided to brave the happiest place on earth on Super Bowl Sunday with the idea that it might not be as crowded. We were so wrong but with AP Passes we can return again and again to continue all year through. With the AP pass we can just relax in the park and take our time-no rushing and adding more stress.

This was the second time Celeste came. Last time in July of 2008 she stayed at the Disneyland hotel with Ryan while the rest of us went through the park. Now she is older and able to appreciate the things she sees and hears.

Things we saw at this trip: Aladdin show, ToyStory ride, Grizzly rapids, Winnie the Pooh ride, & a little dancing at the Cinderella's Castle (see video).

Do you see the Mouse?

Getting ready for a long day

Just got off the tram

Let's go

Celeste's first Ride

Toy Story ride-finally!

By the way, Annual Passes can now be paid monthly.

Imagine going to Disneyland for $5-$20 a month. Craziness!

Just make sure you read the fine print.

a new "Habit"

2009-02-04T09:33:00.001-08:00

I've seen the new joint as I drive by Torrance Blvd on my way to Rascal's. Yesterday I couldn't resist anymore and curiosity got the better me. Just driving into the parking lot I already smelled the aroma of burgers being grilled-like what we smell often during summer time-oh and it was good. I was surprised as how the prices were so good for my pockets. For some reason I thought it would be more. For $7 and some change I got #1 that included what is in the picture. I changed the fries for Onion rings. It tasted good and when I left I didn't have the feeling of grease in my mouth-you know THAT after taste sometimes. Best part: my tummy was happy. Possibly be a new Habit to start. Want to know the best part? Pinkberry is just a few steps away waiting for you :)

Pictures to share

2009-01-26T20:43:00.000-08:00

With Great Lolo Apin: showing off the purple hearts

Because she looks cute in the dress

Rj does his REAL homework from school

Celeste's favorite activity: reading books

The time when I let her feed herself. Its not chocolate - its prunes and she loved it.

Its a sad day...

2009-01-22T20:28:00.000-08:00

Tonight we got the call from Mama Cely that Nanay Gloria has gone to heaven. Its a good thing all of her sisters decided to go back and left Wednesday. I feel sad that we never got the chance to meet her. We were planning to make the trip in 2010 for her December birthday.
When another loved one passes it reminds me of the other relatives that have also moved on. It still aches & the only comfort I tell myself is that at least they are no longer in pain and they are in peace.

Facebook Fever

2009-01-18T14:20:00.001-08:00

Another funny & true infomation from Happyslip
I <3 Happyslip & her videos.

http://www.happyslip.com/2009/01/15/facebook-fever/
Click on the link :)

I was wondering why I was getting so much Facebook mail...

Someone is having a birthday today...

2009-01-17T07:11:00.001-08:00

Birthdays are special- as special as the person it belongs to. Its not only the day the person was born but its the one day that person has to themselves designated to be THEIR DAY. Celebrating a person's birthday is celebrating about them, the person that they are, acknowledging their great achievements (big or small) and most of all letting them know that they are LOVED. I think its what we all need to know. And birthdays are usually the day they are reminded of how important they are in our lives, reminds them they are not forgotten and that they are special-so special that Our Lord gave them a special day to celebrate their life-the gift He gave us.

Today I know two special people having their birthday.

Happy Birthday Ryan!

Happy Birthday Marianne P.!

-Mahalia

Ryan's Lola Gloria

2009-01-14T15:49:00.000-08:00

We recently got a call from Philippines that Ryan's Lola is in the ICU. Her name is Gloria too.

Mama Cely left for Philippines last night. We just need as many prayers as possible. Its the strongest tool out there. Although I've never met her, I know that she was a great mom because I see the strong foundation she created in her family. I feel the love she has for everyone because they all show it to each other and shares it to everyone else around them.

A little story about Celeste

2009-01-08T21:06:00.000-08:00

I took her to her daycare this morning. As usual she clings to me and when I started playing peek a boo with her in the class mirror. She relaxed and I was able to get away so that I can put away her food in the fridge. One of her teachers tells me " So and so likes Celeste." I said " Oh which one is he?" I looked at where I left Celeste and found a little boy who resembles Rj when he was that age standing next to my daughter with his lips puckered up slowly getting closer to her cheeks. And my daughter just stood there waiting for the inevitable. Afterwards she looked at me and gave me a smile. I was in semi shock and holding back my laughter. It was too cute. Houston, looks like we got a problem. hehehe

whispering I found it.. :)

2009-01-07T11:51:00.000-08:00

I heard from a coworker that Porto's yummy goodies have invaded the Carson area.

I found it!! Its conveniently close to Rj's daycare, right next to Harbor UCLA hospital in the new plaza next to Hong Kong Garden on Vermont. No need to go to Glendale unless you're ordering the mini platter of all their yummy goodness... The place has only been open for 3 months. The prices of the cakes are pretty much in the same range as Kings Hawaiian. This can't be good for my waist line but hey I still have my pregnancy clothes available in the closet :) What I am curious about is their restaurant part-mental note: try the food :)

Rj & Celeste opens presents

2008-12-30T11:38:00.000-08:00

Rj & Celeste opening presents from Lolo Rino & Lola Lita

Salamat & Thank you

2008-12-30T11:34:00.001-08:00

We just wanted to say "Thank you" to our White Elephants. There is a little something for each of us to enjoy. Looks like we are ready to kick the new year in with some mind exercises and a great way to inspire Rj to pick up the coins. Let's invite the White Elephant again next year. :)

The Boiling Crab

2008-12-29T22:27:00.000-08:00

To celebrate our Love of 10 years and Marriage of 5 years Ryan and I went to the Boiling Crab. I heard about it first from my coworker Zinna, then I saw a picture posted by my cousin April in Facebook of one of the food items in the menu. I found a mission.

Monday after waking up from doing a 16 hour shift we headed out to Garden Grove in search of the restaurant. We saved out appetite especially for this...and MAN WAS IT WORTH IT!

They are known for the crabs but since they ran out we settled for 12 Oysters, 1 lb of crayfish, 1 lb of shrimps ala "shabang" with corn and potatoes. They don't have rice but its ok with them if you bring your own. I think this would be a good place to try with our family and friends. Be ready to use your hands. As Ryan said the food is "Toe curling-better than sushi good".

SO when are we going ? They are open New Year's day - door open at 3pm.

The Meaning of the Candy Cane

2008-12-29T04:23:00.000-08:00

Many years ago a candy maker wanted to make a candy that would symbolize the true meaning of Christmas-Jesus.
The hard candy was shaped like a "J" to represent that Jesus is our rock of all ages. The candy was made of white to stand for the pureness of Jesus. The red represents the blood that Jesus shed to save us from our sins.
So the next time you see a candy cane take a minute to remember the real meaning of Christmas.

A Surprise at Work

2008-12-28T01:08:00.000-08:00

December 27 - a date that is hard to forget for 2 main reasons
1. Its my Grandma Gloria's birthday
2. Its also our wedding anniversary-5 years today

Unfortunately its my weekend to work and since I had taken off a couple of days last week due to Celeste being sick I decided to just suck it up and go to work. Little did I know that I would get to celebrate the 2 reasons this day is special to me.
A coworker of mine went to Portos and got some good stuff for us. I ordered the Cheese rolls that I remember eating at Grandma's funeral. I ate one in honor of Grandma.
Then a little later another unexpected something...Ryan came to visit me with 5 heart balloons for the 5 years along with roses and my favorite drink from Starbucks.

It sure made my work hours go by faster. Even though we didn't get to go out for our anniversary its was still a happy one for me.

My 2 cents: a family blog

Starting 2012 with a clean slate

Welcome to the Jungle

To my dearest Anak

Starting a new Tradition

Our new Home...

On our way

Merry Christmas from our family to yours...2011

Remembering

Dreaming Big

My baby girl turns 4

Its October again...

Going back

Family Vacation: Hawaii 2011

Nurses are every day heroes 2011

Happy New Year 2011

7 years ago...

Christmas 2010 part 1

Post Thanksgiving 2010

Thanksgiving 2010

Trip #3 to Santa Monica Airport

Good Times & Good Food with Great Friends

Day #2 :Sanrio's 50th Anniversary

Hello Santa Monica...Hello Kitty...

Celeste's 3rd Birthday Celebration: What is a birthday all about?

Celeste's 3rd Birthday Celebration: Part 2

Celeste's 3rd Birthday Celebration: Part 1

If there were 3

In Memory of Tatay Harry

The Truth

My little girl turns 3

God made Little Girls

5 days to go and counting....

One Checked off My Bucket List

A Sunday Morning Conversation with Celeste

Day 3 of 3

The Pink Glove Video

Someone is going to have a birthday soon....

Celeste's Phrases

Happy Birthday to my Brother!

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2010!

From a mother's heart

****************************************************************October 17,2009:

"At 7:35 tonight Little Allison grew her wings and went to Heaven. it was peaceful and painfree for her. She was surrounded by friends and family and lots of love during her final day on earth. Thank you all for your endless thoughts and prayers for our angel baby." written by Nicole Zicree.

Let the madness begin...

My Lolo Apin

Celeste @ 6:30am on a Friday

Back to school 9/8/2009

My Mommy turns 60

She's back

Car Fire

The Americana @ Brand

Please pray for Julie

Short notice family dinner

Preview of our Family Photo session

End of the month

Allelujah!!!

Easter 2009

Rj's security pillow cover

a survey

Out & About

Lola Fe's 80th Birthday

I have a new assistant

Vday turns out to be better than Christmas

Parents sneak a trip to Disneyland

First trip to Disneyland 2009

a new "Habit"

Pictures to share

Its a sad day...

Facebook Fever

Someone is having a birthday today...

Ryan's Lola Gloria

A little story about Celeste

*whispering* I found it.. :)

Rj & Celeste opens presents

Salamat & Thank you

The Boiling Crab

The Meaning of the Candy Cane

A Surprise at Work

****************************************************************

October 17,2009:

whispering I found it.. :)