Greetings from My Family...

To Yours!

Saturday 9: My Last Stand of 2009

Welcome to Saturday: 9 . What we've committed to our readers is that we will post 9 questions every Saturday. Sometimes the post will have a theme, and at other times the questions will be totally unrelated. Those weeks we do "random questions," so-to-speak. We encourage you to visit other participants posts and leave a comment. Because we don't have any rules, it is your choice. We hate rules. We love memes, however, and here is today's meme!

Saturday 9: Sam's Last Stand of 2009


1. What did you think of 2009?
~~ Challenging (at least for us)!
2. What do you think was the news story of the year?
~~ Pres. Obama...who else?
3. What happened this year that you never want to hear another word about?
~~ A Big Lie made by a relative!
4. What was your favorite song of 2009?
~~ None.
5. What did you accomplish this year?
~~ Nothing much...hope to accomplish one this 2010.
6. Did you learn anything new this year?
~~ Yes, that you cannot please everyone!
7. What are you looking forward to in the new year?
~~ For our lease to be over and move to a new house.
8. What are your plans for New Year's Eve?
~~ Midnight dinner with hubby and son.
9. What's the best thing you ever did on a New Year's Eve?
~~ Watched fireworks and spent quiet time with my family alone.

Happy Birthday, Shy!

Your friendship touches my heart in so many ways and I am grateful for that! I am glad to have found you here on the blogsphere and we became friends :-). You are a friend anybody would want for. Stay the way you are...Tsang for that is what I like most about you! Happy Birthday again, dear...hugs from me!

Many people will walk in

and out of your life,
but only true friends will leave
footprints in your heart.

~Eleanor Roosevelt ~

Filipino Christmas Traditions

Christmas in the Philippines is a mixture of Western and native Filipino traditions. Santa Claus, the Christmas tree, sending Christmas cards, and singing carols have all been inherited from the cultures of the West. However, these have all been adapted to fit the nature and personality of the Filipino people.

Christmas Eve in the Philippines is one of the traditions most families celebrate. It is a night without sleep and a continuous celebration moving right into Christmas Day. As December 24th dawns, the last Mass of Simbang Gabi is attended; then preparation begins for Noche Buena, which is a family feast that takes place after midnight.

The Noche Buena is very much like an open house celebration. Family, friends, relatives, and neighbors drop by to wish every family member "Maligayang Pasko" (Merry Christmas). Food is in abundance, often served in buffet style. Guests or visitors partake of the food prepared by the host family (even though they are already full or bloated!). Among the typical foods prepared in the Philippines during Christmas are: lechon (roasted pig), pancit, barbecue, rice, adobo, cakes (Western and native rice cakes), lumpia, etc. There is also an abundance of San Miguel beer, wine, and liquor, which makes the celebration of Christmas indeed intoxicating!

The streets are well lit and are full of activities. The children run in and out of the house to play, to eat, and to play again. The Christmas Eve gathering provides an opportunity for a reunion of immediate and distant family members. Some families may choose to exchange gifts at this time; others wait until Christmas day.

In general, the center of a family's Christmas gathering is always the Lola, the endearing term used for a family matriarch or grandmother, who is deeply respected, highly revered, and always present. Filipinos remember how their lola had their children form a line and step up to receive a small gift of some coins. The older the child, the more coins he or she receives.

Some families have a talent show during Christmas Eve celebration. Children are asked to perform. One might sing a Christmas song, others might play a musical instrument, or others may recite a poem or do a dance. The celebration continues until about 6 o'clock in the morning. Those who cannot attend Mass the night before will go to the morning Mass on Christmas day.

Christmas day is a popular day for children to visit their uncles, aunts, godmothers, and godfathers. At each home they are presented with a gift, usually candy, money, or a small toy. Food and drinks are also offered at each stop. It is a day of family closeness, and everyone wishes good cheer and glad tidings.

Sunday Stealing: Lola's Holiday Meme

Today we ripped this meme off a blogger named Stacy at the blog All Stacy, All the Time. She states that she stole it at Lola's blog Lola's Diner. Lola wrote this herself! We had searched for a holiday meme, but only found two that had already been played by a zillion players. We were thrilled to find not only an original meme, but one much better than the other two. Link back to us at Sunday Stealing!

Cheers to all us thieves!

Sunday Stealing: Lola's Holiday Meme

1. What is your favorite holiday show/animated show?
~~ Merry Christmas, Charlie Brown.
2. What holiday character do you think you're most like?
~~ Santa Claus
3. What holiday character does your spouse think you're most like?
~~ Mrs. Claus
4. Favorite Christmas/holiday song?
~~ It's Christmas All Over the World.
5. Most hated Christmas/holiday song?
~~ Sad Christmas songs
6. If you have an all holiday music radio station when do you start listening to it?
~~ December
7. If you have an all holiday music radio station do you love it or hate it?
~~ Love it
8. Have you ever wrapped yourself as a Christmas present?
~~ Nope!
9. Who is Rudolf The Red Nosed Reindeer's father?
~~ Donner
10. Do you drive your neighborhood or one near you at night to look at other people's holiday decorations?
~~ Yes, we do!
11. When you see a heavily decorated house do you think, 'oh that's lovely'? Or do you think, 'oh criminy, that looks like Christmas threw up all over their lawn'?
~~ Crimnly
12. Are you counting the days to Christmas with excited anticipation or dread?
~~ Anticipation
13. When was the last time you had your photo taken with Santa? Did you sit on his lap?
~~ Lat year, no I didn't sit on his lap!
14. Do you make a Christmas list for your spouse or significant other or do you rely on them to pick your gift(s) without a clue from you?
~~ I want it to be a surprise, so I let him pick my gift for...if I don't like ie, I can always return it...and he is fine with that.
15. When do you put up your tree?
~~ Day after Thanksgiving.
16. Real or fake?
~~ Fake for now , but would love to have a real one next year.
17. When do you take your tree down?
~~ After three kings.
18. Do you shop the day after Christmas sales? What do you shop for?
~~ Yes, chocolates for my nieces, wrappers and winter clothing.
19. Is your work/office having a holiday party this year? Will you attend?
~~ I don't work, but sure miss parties at work when was still working.
20. Do you have your New Year's Eve Plans set yet?
~~ Yup! Just spend a quiet time with hubby and son home.

I Love Hoilday!

You Love the Holidays More than Anyone

The holidays are a special time for you, and you try to keep the holiday spirit going all year long. You believe that this season is all about giving, and you love the chance to practice generosity. Whether you're making someone smile with the perfect gift or feeding everyone cookies, the holidays always elevate your mood. Just putting on your favorite holiday song always warms your heart. Even if it's July!

How Much Do You Love the Holidays?

Friday Fill Ins

And...here we go!

1. Good times: are times where I spend time with my family.
2. Hello everyone, welcome to my home.
3. Sleigh bells ring are you listening?
4. Small acts of kindness we do means a lot though to us it is little.
5. Once more, you can do better, just keep trying and be patient.
6. Are you sure, this is the end?
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to sleeping early, tomorrow my plans include laundry in the morning, attend birthday of Jake's classmate in the afternoon and going to a church Multi-cultural Christmas party at night and Sunday, I want to go to church with my family then rest afterward, maybe taking a nap.

Sunday Stealing: The Can't Sleep Meme

Today we ripped this meme off a blogger named Catherine Donovan at the blog Marvel Not a Girl. She does not states where she found it. She grabbed it because she couldn't sleep. But, it was probably stolen there as well. So, of course, that will be as far as we go. Tracing back our theft's thieves might take some time. Link back to us at Sunday Stealing!


Cheers to all us thieves!

Sunday Stealing: The Can't Sleep Meme

Would it be hard to kiss the last person you kissed?
~~ No, if it is either my hubby or son.
When is it hard to kiss someone?
~~ When I am angry.
You're trapped in a room with your most recent ex for three days, what do you do?
~~ Nothing...just talked with him.
Does it matter to you if your significant other smokes?
~~ Yup, but fortunately he doesn't!
Have you ever regretted letting someone go?
~~ No, had I not let him go, I wouldn't be married to my wonderful husband :-)!
Where would you go if you were butt naked and locked out of your house?
~~ My next door neighbor to borrow and borrow something to cover it :-)!
Do you want to please everyone?
~~ Who wouldn't? But unfortunately, it would be impossible no matter how much I tried.
Have you ever been called heartless?
~~ Nope!
Someone calls you at 3:00 AM, who do you expect it to be?
~~ Member of my extended family in the Philippines.
Does it matter if your significant other drinks?
~~ Nope, as long as it is not alcoholic beverages.
Could you go the rest of your life without doing drugs?
~~ Yup, if I don't have health problems.
Which is better, amazing eyes or an amazing smile?
~~ Smile...of course!
Do you want to get married and have children one day?
~~ Had you asked me this question 9 years ago, I would say, yes! Am married now with an adorable son.
Are you easy to get along with?
~~ I think, yes :-)!
Do you ever want to go to sleep and not wake up?
~~ No...not ever!
Are you shorter than your Mom?
~~ No, I think we are on the same height.
Describe your life currently in one word:
~~ Happy!
Are you on medication for anything?
~~ Yes, immunosuppressants.
Who would you allow to read your thoughts for one day?
~~ My husband.
Are there things in your life that you will never be able to get over?
~~ Blaming myself from the death of my first child...It wasn't my fault, but I still think It was.
If you woke up naked next to the last person you kissed, what would your reaction be?
~~ Nothing...because he would be my husband.

Here we go...

1. You get what you have been praying for and I am happy for you.
2. You have the right to express what you feel.
3. It's not easy to succeed, it would take time.
4. Spending more than you earn is ridiculous!
5. I feel more safe and secure when hubby is home.
6. I love you pumpkin...goodnight!
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to updating my blogs and posting some meme, tomorrow my plans include go window shopping at T.J.Max tomorrow my plans include talk to my mother on the phone.

Sunday Stealing: The Tell Me About Yourself Meme

Today we ripped this meme off a blogger named Vicki at the blog Fleurette. She states that she found it at Deborah's Devil's Sidekick blog. But, it was probably stolen there as well. So, of course, that will be as far as we go. Tracing back our theft's thieves might take some time. Link back to us at Sunday Stealing!

Cheers to all us thieves!

Sunday Stealing: The Tell Me About Yourself Meme

1. When is your birthday? ~ Sometime in March
2. Where were you born? ~ Hospital
3. Where do you live now? ~~ Two bedrooms, two baths apartment.
4. What is your heritage? ~~ Filipino
5. Tell us about a weakness. ~ Foods
6. What's a goal that you'd like to achieve? ~ Work as a Nurse.
7. What is the most overused internet phrase? ~ Cyber- Monday and LOL.
8. What was your first thought this morning? ~ If not for my headache I wouldn't go back to bed after preparing my son for school.
9. When do you usually go to bed? ~ Ten o'clock most of the time.
10. Do you smoke? If not, did you ever? ~ Yes, when I was a teenager, just for curiosity reason.
11. Do you like your current relationship status? ~ Yes, absolutely!
12. Do you (or did you) get along with your parents? ~ Yes, we have good relationship.
13. How often do you drink alcohol? ~ I don't drink any alcoholic beverages.
14. Have you ever tried drugs (that weren't prescribed)? ~ Absolutely not and... never will!
15. Have you ever gone skinny dipping? ~ If yes, do tell. No and never will!
16. If given the choice, how would you like to die? ~ Very quick, old without suffering.
17. What did you want to be when you grew up?~ Happily married with kids.
18. Have you ever been dumped? ~ Yup, I wouldn't be married to my hubby have I not.
19. What's on your pizza? ~ Canadian ham, and pineapple.
20. Have you ever shoplifted? ~ No!

With Love Wednesday: Love for Life

First of all, let me thank Jona of A Time to Weep and a Time to Laugh blog for inviting me to join this new meme created by her. This is my first time and here is my first entry for this week's theme : Love for Life.

After our six months online courting, Matt and I decided to meet. The moment we saw each other at the airport when we picked him up, I knew then that he was the one for me...and that he would be the one I would like to spend my life with in here and in the next life.

This photos was taken 3 years later after our wedding :-)!

And he is the fruit of our LOVE!

To Everyone...

Sunday Stealing: The Party Mummy Meme

Welcome back to Sunday Stealing. Sunday Stealing originated on WTIT: The Blog authored by Bud Weiser. Here we will steal all types of memes from every corner of the blogosphere. Our promise to you is that we will work hard to find the most interesting and intelligent memes. You may have heard of the expression, “honor amongst thieves”. In that age-old tradition, we also have our rules. First, we always credit the blog that we stole it from and we will “fess up” to the blog owner where we stole the meme. We also provide a link to the victim's post. (It's our way of saying "Thanks!") We do sometimes edit the original meme, usually to make it more relevant to our global players, to challenge our players, sometimes to select that meme's best questions, or simply to make it less repetitive from either this new meme or recently asked questions from a prior featured meme. Let's go!

Today we ripped this meme off a blogger named Sarah at the blog Lady Mama. She states that Party Mummy (she did not provide a link) insisted she do the meme. But, it was probably stolen there as well. So, of course, that will be as far as we go. Tracing back our theft's thieves might take some time. Link back to us at Sunday Stealing!

Cheers to all us thieves!

Sunday Stealing: The Party Mummy Meme

1. Name someone with the same birthday as you.
~~ My Grandfather.
2. Where was your first kiss?
~~ From my first love and BF, in front of our house.
3. Have you ever hit someone of the opposite sex? If yes, why?
~~ Nope!
4. Have you ever sung in front of a large number of people? When?
~~ Yes, when I was still a choir member at church.
5. What's the first thing you notice about your preferred sex?
~~ Personal hygiene, and the way they dress.
6. What really turns you off?
~~ Arrogance, conceited and rudeness.
7. What is your biggest mistake?
~~ I made some mistakes in my life...but the biggest one didn't happen yet!
8. Have you ever hurt yourself on purpose?
~~ No! Why would I do that? By accident, yes!
9. Say something totally random about yourself.
~~ Shy and simple.
10. Has anyone ever said you looked like a celebrity?
~~ Yup :-)... t'was a long time ago.
11. Do you still watch kiddie movies or TV shows?
~~ Yes, with my son.
12. Are you comfortable with your height?
~~ I am not tall, but yes I am.
13. What is the most romantic thing someone of the preferred sex has done for you?
~~ Candle Light dinner at my fave restaurant.
14. When do you know it's love?
~~ When all I think about is him and when it feels right from the very beginning of the courtship.
15. What's something that really annoys you?
~~ inconsiderate neighbors.

Not Happy!

I was very disappointed with the outcome of the multi-cultural activity last night. Okay, first of all, we got there seven minutes late. We found parents, children and teacher and staff in the cafeteria eating desserts from different country. I didn't see any children's presentation as what the program said. The, people are busy eating and nobody even bothered to take the dessert I brought, so I decided to take it home with me. Then, there's this thing going on in the library selling gifts for Christmas. To me, it was a scam! Yes, they are pretty cheap from .99 cents to $15; but how would my 5 year old son picks a present for grandma and grandpa? I need to be there for my son and pick which one would be perfect for them as well as for me and Daddy. So, I ended up buying it myself. I spent $20.20 for Jake gifts to us...not bad! Anyway, I learned my lesson not to go attend that activity again next year. No wonder why I didn't see a single Filipino family there. No pictures taken on that event, sorry!

Thanksgiving Lunch at School...

I just got home from my son's school where I had a thanksgiving lunch with him. The foods were not bad at all. I like the turkey and its gravy; it was tender and juicy. Anyway, I always wonder what my son eats at school during lunch time. I was very surprised to see his tray with good balance diet; it has meat, veggie, pumpkin pie (his fave pie), a mashed potato and milk. Of course I try to serve him a healthy balance diet when home and that he can't leave the table without finishing the foods on his plate. We had fun eating together at school and I love watching him eats and enjoys his fave dessert. Tonight, we need to go back to his school for another fun activity. I was asked to bring a Filipino dessert...well, I can't think of an easy to prepare dessert than a fruit salad, and that is what I am going to bring. I am excited to see/meet some Filipino parents who will be there. My son's teacher told me it is one of the most successful activity they do every year. So, I better not miss it!

Just When He Needed Me Most!

Tonight something happened that really put my love with my husband to a test. I always know and feel that I love him, but today when he needed me most, I was there for him; when those people whom we both trusted turned their back on him. For me, he did his best to make the activity a success, but only few people appreciated it. The rest criticized him and it broke my heart. I am glad I was able to composed myself pretending that everything was fine, but deep inside I wanted to run to him and give him a great hug...and to tell him how happy and proud I am of him. After the activity, the tears I was holding ran down my face. I was very upset and there my husband saying it's fine, it is all over. He told me he was happy that my son and I was there to support him. I was glad I was there, too! I realized then that we can not please everyone. The boys were happy and that is the most important thing, beside it was an activity for the boys, anyway!

Get Your Free 2010 Horoscope

I used to read horoscope especially when it comes what is going to happen for each and everyday of my life, about love astrology. It gives me thrill every time. So, if you love reading astrology, you should check proastro.com where you can get free 2010 horoscope just right on the tip of your finger. You don't need to see an astrologists and pay every time you want to see them. You can even get your free personal daily horoscope forecast; all you have to do is enter your name and birth date and read everything you wanted to know free! I am sure you will love the birth chart and mini soul scope. So what are you waiting for, visit the website now.

Friday Fill Ins

Here we go...

1. The last band I saw live was A Pinoy Band (can't remember the exact name, sorry) when we went to Ayala-Alabang Town Center last April before going back home (US).

2. What I look forward to most on (Thanksgiving)Christmas is spending time with my family and feasting on those yummy foods!

3. My Christmas/holiday shopping is mostly gifts for my families here and overseas.

4. Thoughts of shopping for gifts for my family fills my head.

5. I wish I could wear a sweater made of Cashmere on cold days.

6. Bagpipes is one musical instrument that is interesting to me.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to retire to bed early and be ready for the morning's chores, tomorrow my plans include doing chores (laundry and cleaning) and Sunday, I want to attend church and spend more time with my family and friends.

Let Us All Drive Safely!

Everyday except weekend, I drop and pick my son off at school. I can't help but notice many parents don't buckle their kids up when they pick their kids up at school. I watch them do that everyday, to think that those kids are just pre-schoolers. I think these young kids can not buckle themselves up yet...well my son couldn't do that when he was at least three to four year old!

One more thing, there is a certain woman who is always late to drop her kids off, and because of that, she never fail to cut other cars off! In addition, she drives fast as if she in on the freeway! For crying out loud, that is a school zone! One time, she almost crash on our car when hubby was driving away from school. And today, guess what? She almost hit me, too! I just don't know what happened, but she just came out of nowhere! Hope someday she realized how bad driver she is...before it's too late!

Don't get me wrong, I am not a good driver as well, but I always make sure that my son is buckled up, and that I am always aware of the speed limit when in at school zone, residential road on top of driving the speed limit anytime anywhere to avoid accident. For some reason, there are some people who are not considerate enough for the safety of other people. They just don't realize that they are also endangering their life by doing that.

Sunday Stealing: The Strange Question Meme, Part 2

Today we ripped this meme off a blogger named Leo Maccool at the blog Butch Girlcat. It's a 50 question meme, so we decided do it in two parts. Today is Part 2. She explains that she stole meme from the ever-fabulous GREG. But, it was probably stolen there as well. So, of course, that will be as far as we go. Tracing back our theft's thieves might take some time. Link back to us at Sunday Stealing!

Cheers to all us thieves!

Sunday Stealing: The Strange Question Meme, Part 2

26. What color is your watch?
~~ Gold and Silver.
27. What do you think of when you hear “Australia”?
~~ Sidney Opera House and the movie "Finding Nemo" :-)!
28. Would you strip for money?
~~ Absolutely not!
29. Do you go in a fast food place or just hit the drive thru?
~~ I would go if I have my son with me.
30. What is your favorite number?
~~ Six
31. Who’s the last person you talked to on the phone?
~~ My friend, Juliet.
32. Any plans today?
~~ Yup, attend church service and visit a friend after taking a nap after church :-)!
33. In how many states have you lived?
~~ Two, Texas and Virginia.
34. Biggest annoyance right now?
~~ The constant noise of our neighbors upstairs are making.
35. Last song listened to?
~~ My son was singing a minute ago and it was all about FALL where leaves are falling :-)!
36. Can you say the alphabet backwards?
~~ Yes, but it would be slow :-); my 5 year old son is good on that!
37. Do you have a maid service clean your house?
~~ How I wished; maid service there days are so expensive, I'd rather clean my house, myself.
38. Favorite pair of shoes you wear all the time?
~~ Flat brown Mary Jane style shoes.
39. Are you jealous of anyone?
~~ No!
40. Is anyone jealous of you?
~~ None that I know of!
41. Do you love anyone?
~~ Yes, who doesn't?
42. Do any of your friends have children?
~~ Yes.
43. What do you usually do during the day?
~~ The usual, chores, blogging and errands.
44. Do you hate anyone that you know right now?
~~ As I said: No! Maybe what they do instead (see #34).
45. Do you use the word hello daily?
~~ On the Phone.
46. What color is your car?
~~ Red.
47. What size wedding ring do you wear?
~~ I don't have any idea what size my wedding ring is!
48. Are you thinking about someone right now?
~~ Yes, my parents in the Philippines.
49. Have you ever been to Six Flags?
~~ Yes, in San Antonio , Texas.
50. How did you get your worst scar?
~~ When I had the Kidney Transplant! (a reminder of the second life God has given me).

Saturday 9: Be True to Your School!

Saturday 9: Be True to Your School

1. What was your favorite subject in high school?
~~ Science
2. Do you watch reality shows? Which ones?
~~ I used to...It was the Amazing Race.
3. What's your favorite all time reality show?
~~ Amazing Race!
4. Do you feel "reality" shows are real or are they faked?
~~ For me, most of them are scripted that is why I stopped watching them except the Amazing Race.
5. What did you look like when you were a teenager?
~~ Nerdy, skinny and ugly.
6. Whose advice do you listen to?
~~ My parents, hubby, church leaders and trusted friends.
7. How often do you sick?
~~ I rarely get sick.
8. Do you like or dislike change?
~~ Yes, I do like change for it is a good thing and I learn from it every time.
9. How many times in your life have you had a broken heart?
~~ Several times.

Join us at Saturday: 9. We haven’t any rules here. "Just A Silly Meme on a Saturday!" Enjoy the weekend!

Eternal Family

The scripture said, our character or attitude will still be the same in the next life but only those that has learned, practiced and disciplined the law of his or her being can reap the eternal life rewards. A quote from Heroes, "To understand who you need TO BE, you must understand who you WERE." We are all children of the God who created the universe, in His image were we all created. To be with Him, we must do our best to be like Him first. The Temple is the ONLY gate for a man and a woman to become so.

Thanks for All My Loyal Ec Droppers!

Dropper # of drops

Mom's Place 31
Jean sQuared 30
Wirez and Circuitz 27
iTravel 26
Bits and Pieces 23
Ramblings of a Haemophiliac 23
Memories Of You 15
simplehappylife 15
Halloween For Kids 15
The Way I See It 14

Does This Mean, We are Guilty?

I didn't really realize she is mad at me and my husband till on the Halloween activity where my son and I attended; it was trunk or treat at church. The thing is that it was a potluck and I was supposed to bring soup, but because I was busy that day, I decided to bring dessert instead. When we got there, I immediately went to the kitchen to give her the dessert since she was the one in-charged with food preparations. While I was handling her the cookies, I was trying apologize for not bringing the soup instead, but to my surprised, she didn't want to listen to what I was saying, but said "yeah, yeah, yeah yeah" without even smiling, but an upset face! I just left giving her the benefit of the doubt. It started to bother me when hubby told me she has been ignoring his smile and greeting for a while now. Same thing happened every time I gave her a smile! Now, this is something serious I think that needed an answer/attention. I don't know what to do! If we have offended her, why would she tell it to us? I am now thinking of sending her a letter since I am sure she wouldn't answer the phone if I do. I would like to apologize if we have offended her (which I don't remember, since we hardly really talk to each other at church because we are both busy with our callings/responsibilities every Sunday). My question is "are we guilty since it bothers me so much now?" This has gotten worst since she wouldn't say anything or wouldn't even look at us anymore. This shouldn't be happening since we both go to the same church and ignoring is not part of God's teaching. She even more mad at my husband since they are both working at Cub Scout; my husband being a Cub Scout Master and her as a Webelos Den Leader. I am so confuse! She used to be so sweet; and we hug each other every time we see each other at church, or talk at the grocery store. Then, all of a sudden she changed! My husband told me not to worry since we didn't do anything that made her mad at us.

Trunk or Treat!

Last night we attended activity at church which is trunk or treat where games, foods, and fun can be enjoyed before Halloween. There was a costume contest, too! It was like a mini version of state fair where you get ticket to pay for foods, plus free foods are offer too from potluck. Kids had lots of fun and so as the adults :-)! The last part was the trunk or treat! Anyway here are the photos I took from last night.

Before heading to church for trunk or treat; here is my little pirate ready for trunk or treat.

Plinko time...

Hitting balloons...

He won second prize from his costume, the first prize was wearing a pirate costume, too!

It' trunk or treat time!

With his friend and classmate, Kylie, holding hands...trunk or treating...

with Josh, his bestfriend at church!

Small Talk Six!

6 things (good or bad) that you credit your mother-in-law for...

1. For raising a good son, my Husband.
2. For Having tons of Good Books
3. For Great Memories
4. For Some Great Photos
5. For Some Great Quilts
6. For Nice Summer Vacation/Reunion

Find Your Lost Mentors Through My Life!

With the use of modern technology such as internet, finding old friends from high school as well as long lost friends even relatives makes easier! I am amazed to find some friends I met while serving a mission for church in the southern part of the Philippines. I can not believe it; it's been 15 years since. But now, tracking them down is simple and nearly effortless as long as you know where to look for. Nowadays, there are many social networking sites, but not everyone that I lost touch with can be found in just one site, that is why I kept looking on the other sites. Thank goodness, I have found a website that allows me to search for those lost contact with as well as search for those who are searching for me! So, whether you are looking for you ex boyfriend or girlfriend, high school sweetheart, and even ancestors who are long gone before us, MyLife is there to help you! My Life helps me find my mentor who used to be my Math teacher who really believed in me. She taught me a lot of things like poverty are not a hindrance to success and that I will succeed with hard work and perseverance. Though she was my teacher, she became my friend who gave me greater sense of self-worth. How about you? Are you looking for someone you lost touch with? If so, then you better visit My Life to find that long lost friends, relatives even that mentor of yours.

The Candy Apple Test

You Are Optimistic and Sweet

You're the type of person who wears a costume representing who you wish you were. You're likely to dress up as a historical figure or a super hero. You think it's fun to dream and play a little. Halloween really brings out your lighter side. Your favorite Halloween celebration is with your favorite people. You love to see what costumes your friends end up wearing. You feel like you can learn a lot from what your friends choose to be this time of the year. It's how they really reveal themselves.

The Candy Apple Test

Friday Fill-Ins

And...here we go!

1. So are we going to your parents house for Thanksgiving or Christmas, Honey?
2. A trip to pumpkin patch with my son's class is what's up ahead.
3. I love to cook and eat that is why I gained extra weight since I got here in the U.S.
4. Having fun of some sort is what's going to pumpkin patch with kids is all about.
5. I walk a thousand mile just to be with my family in the Philippines.
6. Peace and Happiness is the true elixir of life!
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to updating my blogs , tomorrow my plans include attending church activity and Sunday, I want to go to church with my family to attend the Stake Conference and then rest afterward.

Bathtime!

Here is a view of my son taking a bath. He loves a bubble bath and playing on the bath tub with his fave toys. There is no problem giving him a bath as long a I give him at least 15 minutes to play :-)!

Thoughts from the General Conference Addressed

~~ God has prepared us to survive a world of permissiveness. We can gain strength by keeping the commandments of God.

~~ If we don't nourish our mighty change of heart, it will turn to stone.
~~ Having religious observance at home is as important as providing food, clothing and shelter.
~~ Have I done any good in the world today? Have I helped anyone in need?
~~ Christ enlists us in his service, He invites us to draw close to him.

~~ We are the Lord's hands on the earth with a mandate to serve others.

Sleepy Me!

Here I go again, almost everyday after lunch, I feel sleepy no matter what I do Either in front of my PC or watching my favorite T.V.show or movie. I guess, I better go take a short nap now before the Pinoy soap opera starts. I don't want to miss another episode of "Precious Romances", again. Be back in half an hour! Hubby and son are now asleep :-)!

What Teachers Wish You Knew

by Jamie Cline
School doesn’t end with the bell. You, as a parent, want to be able to give your child the best education possible and as much help as he or she needs—but where do you start? And where do you draw the line?
Even though your child may complain when sent off to school, don't underestimate the importance that he or she places on his school success. Achievement in school can have an amazing impact on your child's self-esteem.

Because teachers are professionally trained to help children learn, we've polled a few educators to get their opinion on how you can best help your child's education.

Communicate.
Teachers want to resolve concerns as soon as possible, and are willing to talk to parents about the specific needs of their children. Marcie Gallacher, a former second grade teacher from Wilton, California, says that it is important to "keep lines of communication open. Talk to teachers about questions first, rather than other parents."

Start your relationship with your child's teacher right away. Attend back-to-school nights and open houses so that the teacher knows you are excited about your child's education, and tell the teacher specifically that you want to work together to make this year one of your child's best. Your children will have a much better school experience if you are working with their teachers, not against them.

Read to your children.
Because of the effect reading has on all subjects (yes, reading helps with math, too!), teaching your child to read and continuing to read with him or her is an influential part in preparing your child for school. Hearing books read aloud affects students' independent reading and oral reading, says Gallacher.

Mike Cline, a teacher in Murray, Utah, agrees. "The reason many children act out is because either they can't read or they are not confident at reading, so they don't want to be called on."

Aside from reading to them, encourage your children to read on their own. Encourage your children to choose reading activities (rather than resort to them) by taking a trip to the library once a week. Let them leave their books out in the family room; they might see them and choose to read instead of watch television.

Talk to your kids about school.
Mike Cline's wife, Laurie, teaches junior high in Taylorsville, Utah. She says, "One of the biggest things parents can do for us as teachers is to talk to their kids about school." Asking how their classes are going, what they are learning about, and if they need help studying for tests is extremely important, Laurie says. If children sense that education is important to you, it will be important to them, too.

Make an effort to spend more time with your children and talk to them about important things in their lives. If they express a concern to you about a school assignment, do your best to help them with it. Show them where to research the topic, but do not do your child's work for them. Teachers are well aware when parents have been doing their kids' homework, and they don't like it.

Be accepting.
"I wish that parents would celebrate their children for their accomplishments as well as work with them on their deficiencies," says Annalisa Arizpe, a high school teacher from Clermont, Florida. "Be happy and show joy when your child improves. Accept their personal best.

"Accepting their personal best, however, doesn't mean that you can't help your child improve," Arizpe continues. "I wish that [parents] would look at the papers that their children bring home and really question their answers." Questions like, "Why did you believe that was the correct answer?" and "What could you have done differently?" are the types of questions that encourage, not discourage.

Get involved.
"I am blessed to have several parents who volunteer on a regular basis," says Gretchen Kemp, another high school teacher in Clermont, Florida. "It just so happens that more times than not, these are the students who are straight-A students, those who put in the most effort, and go on to be great community volunteers, as well."

Being involved doesn't need to take lots of time from your already-packed schedule. It is understandable that a parent would be too busy to be the head of the PTA, but even bringing a snack in for a special day or chaperoning a short field trip is a big help to teachers.

But remember not to get too involved. Sometimes parents end up holding back their children when they are trying desperately to help. "I had one parent that every couple of weeks would pick up her eighteen-year-old daughter's missing assignments," says Arizpe. "She would return her child's work a couple of days later. This parent would also call me with questions that the girl had. It was too much, and in my opinion, this girl will never learn the importance of responsibility."

Take advantage of technology.
We live in a time when almost anything can be found online, including your child's grades. "Most schools have grades available online; if that is the case, parents should check them often to see for themselves how their child is doing," says Laurie Cline. If you don't keep up with your child's schoolwork, you might be surprised and overreact when a child brings home a not-so-desirable grade. "Be aware of your child's grades. Do not wait until progress reports and report cards to show concern," says Arizpe.

With some help and prompting on your part, your child can learn to make the most of his or her education - and eventually become a steward over it. And if you remember to always support your children, take advantage of resources, and remind them to step up to responsibility, then you're sure to produce lifelong learners.

Dinuguan, Anyone?

Finally, I made my own chocolate stew (dinuguan) :-); and it tastes like my mother used to make when I was young. I seldom cook this dish because my husband and son don't like the look and taste of it, not to mention that its main ingredient is blood from a pig. If they only knew that there is no harm on eating this dish because the blood is cooked very well. And nobody gets sick from eating it!

Dinuguan (also called dinardaraan in Ilocano, or pork blood stew in English) is a Filipinosavory stew of blood and meat simmered in a rich, spicy gravy of pig blood, garlic, chili and vinegar. The term dinuguan comes from the word dugo meaning "blood". It is similar to the Singapore dish pig's organ soup, differing in that it does not contain vegetables and has a characteristically thick gravy. It is frequently considered an unusual or alarming dish to those in Western culture, though it is rather similar to European-style blood sausage, or British black pudding in a saucy stew form. It is perhaps closer in appearance and preparation to the ancient Spartan dish known as black gruel whose primary ingredients were pork, vinegar and blood. Dinuguan is often served with white rice or a Filipino rice cake called puto.

A similar dish is also known among the Bataks of Indonesia, called sangsang. Sangsang is made from pork or dog meat (or more rarely, water buffalo meat), coconut milk and spices (including kaffir lime and bay leaves, coriander, shallot, garlic, chili pepper and Thai pepper, lemongrass, ginger, galangal, turmeric and andaliman (the fruit of a native shrub similar to Sichuan pepper)).

Sangsang has special significance to the Bataks, as it is an obligatory dish in Batak marriage celebrations.

Source: Wikipedia

What's Your Primary Mood Color?

Your Primary Mood Color is Blue

You are a sensitive and reflective person. You have a good intuition for emotions. You can sense what people are feeling and even sometimes what they are thinking. You communicate well, and you're also a good listener. You cherish your friends, and every word they say is important to you. You are always there for the people you love, and you expect the same in return. You crave deep connection and understanding.

What's Your Primary Mood Color?

Breastfeeding, New WIC Food Program

When I gave birth to my son five years ago, I really wanted to breastfeed him because I know how important breastfeeding is and the benefit both of us will get health wise. Anyhow, based on my experienced, breastfeeding is a great option if you are able to do it, but not always the best one. When my milk dried up, I spent time with a lactation consultant, but still my son and I still had difficulties. We didn't have a choice but give him baby formula. We all know that baby formula can be expensive. A friend of mine mentioned to me once about WIC program. Although we only had one income, we didn't qualify because our income were above the income requirements for WIC. I also learned that WIC program guidance online was not flexible enough for Moms who wanted to partially breastfeed or who had difficulties breastfeeding. You can check the website why. Based on the new WIC program, they categorized the new food package into three, and these are fully breastfeeding, partially breastfeeding, and fully formula feeding mother/infant pairs; these encourages breastfeeding. The new program mandated all states, reallocates funding for all currently provided food, including infant formula, baby foods, juices, and fresh fruits and vegetables. Breastfeeding your baby will save more money and is better for your baby that is why experts and the federal government want American mothers to save money by encouraging them to breastfeed. It is the best nutritional option and it makes the economic sense; it is free and can save you up to $2,000 a year on the costs of formula. If you want to how much you can save buying store brand baby formula, test out the baby formula savings calculator.