Rj's turn to see the Doctor

I don't know how to start but here it goes. He woke up with red poop in his pull ups. Being a nurse I became alarmed right away. That is never normal. Back track to last night while we were waiting for the Kyochon chicken he did complain of stomach pain (which he never does) and I took him to the restroom and he did his deed but it was a strange color too... bright green.  Doctor said to keep him at home take samples so for the next 3 days I am collecting stool. It almost seems like the stool my patients who have Chron's disease have. I just hope he doesn't have that.

Things happen for a reason

Thursday was my day off so it was also Celeste's day off from daycare. Rj was still sleeping at 8am. By 830 he was finally awake and was almost dressed. He got to daycare by 1015-an hour and 15 minutes late. I was rushing all morning because Celeste had an 1115am appointment which meant that I needed to be back in Torrance by at least 1045. I kept thinking to myself that there is a reason why we are late I just have to trust Him.
When we got to Rj's daycare it was time for his Music & Me class, a class I am paying extra for. I know its already made a difference because lately I am hearing him singing more, paying attention more with music. Celeste and I sat in and watch Rj learn how to hit the keys in the piano softly and loudly using only the pointer fingers. I saw how his eyes light up and he looked so proud as he smiled at me after his turn. Of course I welled up and was wishing I had my phone so I could have videotaped it or something. Thank you, Lord.
Here are a couple of videos: one Rj talks about the poster of his Music & Me class the other is his karaoke debut-check out the score.

Celeste's goes to the doctor

Miss Celeste had her 1 year old baby well check up. You would think that with all the recent trips to the doctor's office and ER , that it would be enough. Follow ups are a big thing...plus she got her vaccinations & 1st part of the flu shot today. OUCH! She got 2 shots on her left arm, 1 on her right, 2 on her right thigh and one on her left thigh. I had to be the one to hold her - crying for dear life in my arms. I had to bite my tongue just to keep my composure. I know its to help protect her. If I could take it for her I would. I used a special trick I have learned-give baby the bottle after the shots not before, so they will be a bit hungry and will take the bottle after all those shots and calm down. Her current stats: weight= 21 lbs, height=28 1/2 inches.
She is a good baby to begin with and quieted down as soon as the bottle went in her mouth. She fell asleep between Kaiser and Del Taco so I was at least able to eat in piece in the car as she slept. Upon arrival to the house I decided to just take out the carseat and let her sleep a bit longer. I carried her in the car seat up the stairs and it felt like my arms would fall apart from the heaviness. After putting them down on the floor I peeked under the blanket only to be greeted by her big beautiful eyes and smile on her lips...what a girl!

Reading a magazine while waiting at the waiting room

Getting her temperature checked
"What is that on my toe?"

"I am ready to eat, Mama!"

Getting her weight

Fried Chicken will never be the same

Today I picked up my son from daycare and proceeded to Freshia to get my hands of my favorite fried chicken-Kyochon. I discovered it by curiosity & accident.


After tasting this crazy expensive fried chicken (20 pieces of fried chicken wings/$18) - my taste buds were hooked. I have limited myself to eating it only once a month at the most every two weeks (usually payday). KFC & El Pollo Loco are in a different level from this. All are good in their own way and I love all of them but Kyochon has a special place in my stomach. What used to be in their menu was just the original and spicy. Now they have grilled. I haven't tasted it yet but I will eventually.
The crispiness of the outside skin stays even after a day or two of refrigeration as long as you don't microwave it. Yes even when its cold...I've eaten it cold. Its also good with steamed rice, tomatos & an ice cold coke.

Kid tested and approved

Rj says "Galing"

Hair Manicure

First time I heard this word my ears definitely perked up. One of my coworkers came to work looking like she came out of a magazine with the new hair style. Her hair looked smooth just like the ones in the magazines. I did the usual interview...where did you go, what did you get done and how much did it cost. Since my hair was already in need of a trim I was in search of a new hair salon that can cut my hair the way I wanted it. My inspiration was Mrs. Beckham.
Along comes Ziva Hair Salon-they open at 9 am. I went on a Thursday on a whim after dropping off the kiddies. I met Cindy and told her whose hair I wanted to copy (I didn't bring the picture) and she told me Ok. Next thing I know my hair was being washed and I was wisked back into her station. About an hour later I opened my eyes and there the hair was fitted to suit my skull...I was hooked.


Then Cindy mentioned the word "Hair Manicure". I proceeded to interview her and ask questions-what does it do and how long will it take to do. Basically from what I understood its like deep conditioning your hair along with coloring it (if you want) and it leaves your hair as soft as a baby's bottom. It takes the "Fizzies" off. So I came back 3 weeks later...and got it done.

Looks like an alien is brainwashing my brain....

I found the whole process hilarious and wanted to share it...even took a video of the machine in process.

Two hours later and $100 less here is what it looked like...can't tell much but you can just "feel" the difference...feels as soft as Celeste's bottom.
It took me at this age to start doing things like this for myself...its fun.
While waiting I was texting my brother Chester and told him what I was doing. His response was "Did you tell her that your brother is a manicurist?" Its not the same thing.

I am trying hard not to laugh while taking a self portrait.

Good things come in small sizes

I got a new phone about 8 weeks ago due to necessity. The old had fallen off my hands one to many times and the screen just didn't display anymore. Since the contract was done...might as well venture into what's new out there.  

So I got this...
A Blackberry phone that I just recently found out can do music, video, camera & more that I am not sure of yet.  All that info stored in a Micro disc. This Micro disc is amazing...I say amazing because I have not reached its full capabilities yet. Its called Micro for obvious reasons. 

Good things come in small sizes ... love it!

 

Something new

A place I've heard of more than once...finally found the time to go there.  And it was good.

The outside patio is a nice place to have some friends or family get together.

The French Dip Special that came with Soup (or Salad if you prefer). I must say when I bit into it I was happily surprised at how soft the bread was. The more I ate the more hungry I felt...so I know it was a good sign.

A Little Take Home Present...what could it be I wonder...I just love the cute little box-seriously cute.

A Slice of Heaven-Mocha Mousse...I couldn't help myself.

In conclusion, so many beautiful cakes, only one tummy to fill and only an hour to spare... make note: must go back and bring reinforcements otherwise known as company. Who's up for that?

Oh oh oh they have free wi fi ... delicious.

Random thought

Sometimes God shows us the things that happen to other people maybe to show us what can happen when we make certain choices in life. I just need to watch and listen. Sometimes helping might be the answer but it doesn't solve an ongoing problem. 

I need reminders...and thank you for that.

My problems are not as big as other people's. I may complain about this and that but really things could be worse. How do you help with out being an enabler?

Ay Camote!!

Finally got some time to my hands to blog about Miss Celeste's party and what happens? I can't find my camera to download the pictures in the main computer. Go figure. 

One comment I must add is that I was completely amazed that I was able to pull it off...I actually out did the last party (baptism) for her. It just seems that with each party I plan it keeps getting bigger and bigger. But you know it would not have been as successful if I didn't have the help I get. I sometimes feel sorry for Ryan because I drag him with me...but we're married and he likes it too...at least I think he does. Eh...does he have a choice? :)

So what will be my next party? Something is brewing.

Just to help me remember that for Celeste's actual birthday which was Friday I had some quizno sandwiches+ sent to her daycare for the staff. I love them...they need to know how much I appreciate the great care they give my kids. I sometimes feel that they don't get recognized for that. My way of saying thanks. Today when I dropped her off I saw a card in Celeste's mail box. It was a thank you card from all of them...it made me cry...too sweet.

Miss Diane (Celeste's teacher) told me a story about Celeste. Last Friday one of the babies was crying and Miss Celeste went to the crying baby, patted the hand and gave them a kiss-as if trying to comfort the baby. They were all so surprised to see that. I told them she does that with her brother too-watch the video in the previous post. She is also finally comfortable that she is talking to Miss Diane...amazing.

Rj & Celeste: Its my blanky

I found this movie clip in my camera that Ryan had taken of the kids...I found to be too much of a classic so I had to share. This is what happens when Mama is at work.

To my dear Anak

Dearest Celeste,
Tomorrow you will be turning one. I want you to know that you are a blessing from our dear Lord. I had no idea you were coming and you did catch us by surprise. The last 365 days have all been such a gift-watching you, being in awe of you. I love being your mom...even though you tend to wake up 3 hours after I sleep. I watch you and your brother and I just feel so blessed to have you both. I thank Him for all the beautiful moments: from the way you smile when you see me, when I hear you say "mama". Honey-I love you. And thank you for being in my life.
Love, Mama

Now its Rj's turn

My dear first born seems to get not as much attention lately and I feel bad about that. He has grown up so much since a year ago. I can actually have a conversation with him and understand him. He sometimes adds his two cents in the conversations Ryan and I have during car rides. He is listening and that has always been surprising to me. He loves LEGOs (didn't you? I still do) and has always been great at puzzles. His most recent accomplishment is 2 100 pieces puzzles completed in one night...with minimal help from us. Just about the only help was telling him to put all the colors together and then he put the picture together.




Last night we were at a birthday party (yes again) and as I was mingling with the other mommies I was surprised to hear some form of music coming from the piano area. Earlier there was this kid that was playing the Mario Brothers song from the game so I was happily surprised then. This time when I looked it was MY SON!

No he was not playing composed music (well his own composed music) but it was not painful to listen to either. It some how actually made some tune at least enough for me to want to record it. His first real exposure to the piano playing was with my dad during our family trip for the Maranan reunion last year while pregnant with Celeste. I do hope there is some kind of musical talent brewing in there. I have already added music class in his daycare activities....planting the seeds now.
Its true what they say about some parents giving their children what they didn't or couldn't have when they were younger. I did not find it interesting to play any instrument. And now I find myself hoping that the kids will.

They called it ECZEMA

Well as you might have read in previous posts Miss Celeste has had this rash on her face for a good 2 weeks or so. It started when she had a cold and it was a small spot under her chin. It was growing and during our multiple visits for the ear infection and allergic reaction to Amozicillin one of the pedis said it was Impetigo and prescribed the medicine for that. Well after 10 days it had spread to both of her cheeks-yeah! I was trying not to freak out but each morning it seemed to get redder and redder. Finally (should have been sooner) I took her to urgent care and told them its not getting better-actually looks worse. When I saw who the Md was I was relieved. He was the same one that told me that what Rj had awhile back was roseola...in other words I trust this guy. So he let me ramble on and on (like now) about what has led us to this visit. And he said "Its eczema. Try this and this and it should go away in a few days." For some reason when he said eczema it felt like someone stabbed me in my heart. I have it and so does my sister. I should have known. In a way I am glad we now know what it is. So after one day of following his advice Celeste's face looks to be improving-hopefully just in time to get some studio pics for her 1st birthday...ECZEMA...I am not liking that word - of course it could be worse.

Here she is kissing the baby....through out all this in and out of Md offices Celeste has stayed the same sweet-easy going girl she has always been.

The Making of a Groupie

The story starts out about 19 years ago when I found out about New Kids on the Block. I became a groupie. They were young, cute, and I could see myself hanging out with them. I even tried to copy their dance moves (& failed miserably). I attended the first concert in Atlantic City accompanied by some close family friends and my brother. I thought I had died and gone to heaven seeing my favorite guy (Jonathan) through binoculars...if I could just reach out and touch him-*sigh* Seriously thought he was looking at me and only me. Second concert was Madison Square Garden after the Thanksgiving parade. Screaming dancing living my young life & happy at it. I knew the song lyrics by heart. Then life happened and I grew up.

Fast forward to May 2008-while reading posts off the message board at the Nest I found out that the boys are back...I found myself screaming like I did back then-forgetting that I was holding my baby daughter in my arms. For my birthday I asked my dear husband for tickets to their concert in October. And he gave it to me...all those months I was waiting for the 8th of October to see them again in concert...and it was AWESOME!!! 

Staples was full of girls around my age (mostly younger than me) screaming like me, dancing like me...It felt good to be young again. After all these years I am still a groupie. I had forgotten how life is just so full of excitement. Now that I found their greatest hits album...I will be able to remember that groupie feeling anytime anywhere...again.

trying not to get too excited....

the shirt that should have been bought 19 years ago...thank YOU Papa

Its middle of October already?

Wow! I can't believe its already half way through October which means Celeste is turning the 1 soon-very soon -more like the 24th. My baby girl is ONE! Where has the year taken us? Apparently through a lot but all good stuff.  We are having a birthday celebration on the 25th since its a Saturday. I managed to book a venue and finalizing the details like food, drinks and entertainment. Of course the theme is Princess Celeste. Here is she is searching for the theme...

 I got the banner and the other items all coordinated...insanely I think sometimes.  I am hoping to get the Clown that does balloon animals and stuff and maybe puppet show or face painting. Food so far that I've ordered is from the pizza place I go to at work that has killer garlic breads and pasta...can't wait. 

Meanwhile Miss Celeste started daycare about 3 weeks ago due to necessity. I found a place near work that happens to have 2 people I know that take their kids there too although the kids are older than Celeste. The staff is great but like with any daycare beginning a child gets a cold. She got it and still has it. Due to the cold she got her first ear infection-bummer. She was started on antibiotics and was good for about a week until...one Tuesday morning she was covered in rashes-head to toe red rashes. I took her to ER asap - it was 6 am and thank goodness the parking lot was empty and so was the waiting room. We got in right away, Md came and saw her and told me its probably a delayed allergic reaction to Amoxicillin. You think?! Duh! Now what are we going to do about it? We stopped it of course and just observe her. Meanwhile I am coughing a lung followed by a headache. I see the Md the following day and found out I have bronchitis. Celeste and I spend a whole week together-yay!

What surprises me is during this whole ordeal she never complained-it was like she was not sick at all. She was just her usual cheerful-happy go lucky self-eating drinking the same way.

And did I mention she is WALKING!! Ma gurl is walking every where! Good thing Papa installed the gate back at the stairs. She is also trying to put her little fingers into any thing that looks like a hole. She is the child of mine that I need to baby  proof the house for. Rj was never into what she is. Rj was the easily entertained baby with TV. Celeste could care less about TV. She is the explorer. Heck she is already exploring her closet as you can see from below.

She also has enough hair now to add a clip. I finally found an excuse to buy those cute baby clips I've been eyeing at the Nest.  Doesn't she look more like a girl now? She also has two top and two bottom teeth out... watch out she bites.