What I want for my kitchen

Everytime I tune  my television in to HGTV channel, I can't help myself but to start rearranging my living room furniture. My living room underwent makeover starting from the ceilings to floorings early this summer. I am so impressed with my do-it-yourself job as well as my choice of home decors and furnishings that I can't wait to move on to my next project -- the kitchen!

Yes, my kitchen needs a makeover. I want something contemporary with a touch of industrial. My cabinetry needs refurnishing and new hardwares. Along with the change are tons of details such as a new and huge stainless steel kitchen sink with faucet and dispenser. The kitchen top is laminated, hence, I want it to be transformed to or replaced with granite or concrete. I have a picture of my dream kitchen in my mind that needs to be put on black and white.

My dream kitchen makeover won't be completed without putting in new stainless steel refrigerator, microwave oven, stainless steel oven and other small kitchen appliances and tools. One thing for sure when this dream of mind will push through, I will check out http://home-and-garden.become.com. The e-store has a wide variety of products to offer for a shopper/decorator like me.

Roller coaster life

Over a decade ago, when my parents are fairly needing financial help, people including relatives despised us as their own. For them, we're nothing but a pure trash. My Aunts treated us as their maids watching over their kids and cleaning their mess for 10Php, a small amount of money for those big jobs for kids. Delicious foods were on their table and they would just let us watch 'em eating. There were so many heartbreaking instances that I opted not to disclose anymore. They could have offered compassion or just simply grasp the situation that my father, a former member of the Philippine army, fed six children and sent each kid to school then. Whatever was left after paying tons of bills and buying one's necessities is just a penny. Oh those days remind me of how cruel the world can be.

My parents sacrifices are paid off. We have a better life now than before. Daddy is now a retiree after  spending 30 years of his life in the service. He is now enjoying his fruit of labor with Mamang. My three brothers are in the military as well, not having that better life but at least surviving life. I and younger sister are married to non-Filipinos and living abroad but prior to that, promising careers were on our way before we met our husbands.  Only the youngest is staying at my parents house and will soon be graduating from college taking BSBiology. Mind you that we all went to different private schools that caused my parents an arm and leg.  Now, just imagine how much money were spent after each success in school. Just exclude me, younger sis and older brother for we went to college free of tuition fees.

The wheel does not stay in the same direction and guess what's happening now, those cruel people are living the life that we had before. They are asking  for money and groceries and my compassionate Mamang would just give in that quick. We are most recognized now. Tell you that my  Uncle  chats with us online and offers this and that. Gestures that did not exist before are so visible nowadays. What the heck! I guess they want something, it could be money.

I know it is a sin to condemn my relatives and those who gave us more hard times while were struggling but I can not help myself but to feel that way. You know how it feels to be ignored by families. All those years of disregards still hurt me. It could have been better if the moral support was there regardless of sufferings. If the treatment's fair enough.

On my trip to the Philippines this May, I am certain those people will be at my parents house asking for gifts and money. I can see it clearly. They act like that before when I was still working at a mining company and even went to my office to ask for money at that.  Oh life! Ain't that embarrassing?

Anyhow, I would love to end this post wishing all mothers a Happy Mother's Day.

My booking confirmation, please

April 7, I phoned Tierra Montana Hotel to book a room for the family's May vacation in General Santos City, Philippines. Please read my Time to book post for an overview. I was able to talk to an accommodating receptionist with the heads up that a room has been booked for me. She asked for my contact number, i.e. telephone number and e-mail address that she could send me the booking confirmation.

It's been almost three weeks since my phone call and the confirmation that I am waiting is not received, yet. I so wanna know if I really got that room and if the hotel made changes without my knowing.  Next week, I would call them again. A pain in my butt and would cost me an arm and leg because it is an international call. I have no choice but to keep trying as I want a room in that hotel, I meant so bad. It's clean and the amenities are awesome for less than $1,500 a night.

The hotel's e-mail address is not accessible. I meant my messages are not delivered to the recipient and have attempted for so many times. The only way of contacting them is through phone call or I guess I can send my sister there to give them a heads up that I am really interested and serious with my business to them and that I want my booking confirmation.

Hoping for the best next week.

Farewell, Chubby! You'll be missed for sure

Our poor Chubby.

Never I thought that I won't be seeing Chubby, the family's doggie, on my visit this May and never in the future. For thirteen years, he became our domestic sweetheart. He was the kind of dog that every master would want. Sweet, cutie especially when he was young, watched over the house and dad's fighting cocks every night or every single time that nobody's home, so fearless and had a mind like human. Everyone in the family loved and admired him for his unique qualities.

Monday, April 19th, I saw the pictures of him laying down on the ground tagged by my youngest sister on Facebook. I was thinking he died because of his age. Lately that I knew that someone intentionally killed him. He was poisoned by those selfish neighbors who want to steal my dad's fighting cocks. Chubby was fearless and would bark if he ain't familiar with the person/s and would bite if needed, so getting rid of him was their best way.

I couldn't compose myself when I learned about the news. My heart was not at ease and I'm starting to feel it again now that I am sharing here. I am also worried about my dad because he is so attached to Chubby. They are like bestfriends. I remember Chubby would shed tears everytime my dad leaves home for work and would keep on jumping when dad comes home from a month-long-work. I think dad is so angry 'til now. Just hope he won't catch anyone who did kill Chubby or they would end up in a wheelchair. My dad would sure beat their ass or even shot 'em with his gun if he can't control his temper.

Whew! I am really missing Chubby. I so wanna hug him right now but too late. My family in the Philippines - Dad, Mamang, older brother and youngest sister gave him a burial that he deserved. Chubby will always be the best doggie of the family.

Would you buy this set for a $1000

Recently, I came across an ad on Craiglist. I am always on that site, by the way, every hour if I'm home waiting and looking for a great deal on used or new furniture. So going back, I saw this ad from an insane advertiser/furniture owner. He/She is selling a set of used furniture for a thousand dollars. What? A thousand dollars for an ugly furniture with stains all over it? Now, tell me if you are going to buy this set.

I posted the picture on Facebook to seek the opinions of my friends... if they are going to make a move to purchase if they live close to me. Most of them answered....NO WAY! They are so right. Why buy used furniture for that price where you can get a brand new set for a lesser price? I even saw a brand new set for $600 with free delivery and free of tax. How about that? That's what we call great deal.

Used living room furniture for $1000. Wanna buy?

There is no way I am buying this. It's a pain in my pocket and more in my eyes. This set won't make a room appealing and warm.  It even looks like there are bed bugs or other bugs dwelling in the interior. I hope no one did bite that bait or he or she will end up itching.

 My search for living room furniture is not over yet. I'll keep watching for great deals. So I guess this ends my post.

Sweets on Easter Sunday

Reaching for the goodies, not to eat 'em but to play with 'em.

A day before Easter Sunday, parents-in-law stopped by the house and brought a basket full of candies and chocolates for their favorite granddaughter to enjoy on Easter. The old people were so excited for the 'lil one's second Easter celebration. They were laughing when they saw the 'lil one took the basket away from them, dragged it towards the coffee table and was differentiating colors.

I took the basket away from her and placed it on the kitchen counter top when I noticed that the goodies were scattered everywhere. And guess what happened next? Well, as you see on the photo above, she is still trying to get what's in the basket. She followed me all the way to the kitchen, placed a chair by the countertop where she could reach the basket and climbed up on it. She successfully reached her basket, though.

But did you know that she didn't eat anything from that basket? Yep, her Dada ate 'em all. I ain't a sweet lover and so is the 'lil one. The dada ain't have a choice but to eat and eat and eat sweets on his free day which happened to be Easter Sunday.

Hanalei for my foot

Crocs Hanalei (neutral/jade)
Love it! So light on my foot, feels like I am not wearing wedges.

"Thanks for my new Crocs Hanalei, babe", I told the hubby when my wedge sandals/shoes arrived in mail today. He said, "alright", again? I just gave him my cutest smile with tantalizing eyes. He laughed so hard and really gave his YES to refund my money that I used when I bought my shoes.

And tonight when he came home for a 30-minute-break, I told him that I want another pair but in color blue on payday. He didn't complain which means yes. Weeeeeeeee! I will have another pair of crocs Hanalei. So perfect for spring and summer. Another addition to my shoe collection, too.

Hey, before you think that I am spending much of my husband's money, I'd like to give you a head's up that it's not. I barely ask him to buy my clothes and accessories. He is not selfish but I know how to grasp situations. If it's not important, I never say a single word, though, he is so giving and gives me allowance every payday. Great enough to thank him for being him.

On my payday from paid blogging, I will be buying one more pair of crocs to be used in May, family vacation in the Philippines. It is hot there and the sandals that I am buying are so perfect. I did mention that I am no longer spending much because of the said vacation but here I am spend here and there. I just can't help myself everytime I see something that I like and been longing to have. Anyhow, I already have my own savings for the trip. It ain't a big deal.

Welcome, Spring

A day in the driveway with Dada while waiting for Mama. Look at her moody face, not perfectly alright. Her mama kept her waitin and she's so ready to hit the road.

It's the season after Winter, Spring, the most awaited time of the year. My 'lil one is deprived to be in the yard during cold season, and now that the weather is warming, Mama and Dada take her out for a walk and play either in the yard , driveway or road. She is loving the kisses of the sun on her skin along with the touch of the wind. And oh, she is so into flower picking. She smells it, though, it's scentless. When she sees the birds fly, she gets crazy and just can't get over it. My nature lover baby is just so appreciative.

Oh how nice the day is when the weather is great, not cold nor hot. Have to maximize this season before summer comes. You know how it is here in the South. Summer is a grill. The temperature reaches up to 105F or so with high humidity. Such a shame but there is none to do.

When mid summer hits, sure will coop in the house again like it's Winter. Oh well, just suck it up and time will just fly. Before we know it, it's Fall again.

Compelled in the kitchen

Becoming a mother taught me to be more responsible. If not because of the 'lil one who loves to eat and eat, I wouldn't be spending much time in my kitchen. Mind you that she doesn't eat sweets like cakes, pastries, candies, etc. Among her favorites are rice, sauce or stock from the meats (no meats in her plate), crushed vegies, yogurt, fruits and bread. Seldom she eats crackers and would barely tolerate juice(because it's sweet). I love the way my kid chooses her food. Pretty much, I see her future as a healthy kid.

I love cooking. Doing it enhances the cook in me. Oftentimes, I need no measuring tools, instead, I do estimates. I have become accustomed of how much is needed for a certain dish. In fairness, each food I cook and bake comes out perfect in texture and taste, that's according to hubby and my number one eater, lil one.

Below are result photos of the adventures I have in my kitchen...

Beef mami
Perfect for cold season

Humba or braised pork
Oftentimes prepared during special occasions in the Philippines.

Vanilla Chiffon cake
The best cake I've baked so far.

CHocolate cupcake
First attempt, success!


I bake cakes not because my family eats 'em. I just wanna try recipes in preparation for the future gatherings. At least I know now which recipe to prepare later.

On Heart's Day

Tomorrow, February 14, marks the celebration of love and affection between intimate companions. Valentine's Day is not only for lovers. It is also one of the many days to send out thoughts to the important people in our lives. Our parents, siblings, mentors, friends and even strangers that we meet on the road or charities.

Officially, it's going to be our(hubby and I) third Valentine's Day as a couple. Tomorrow is nothing new. The hubby is working, thus, giving us no time to celebrate together. We can not change the date and so we planned of having a post-Valentine's Day. February 15 is our Heart's Day! We are going to watch a movie at Rave theater and have dinner at the latter. Of course, the 'lil one is staying at her granny's.

I am excited for that day. The previous Valentine's days were not merely celebrated by us. Firstly because of the hubby's job that often falls on that day. On my second year here, I got pregnant. Had a bad pregnancy and had to stay on bed. The next celebration, I gave birth and we couldn't go out. Seemed to me the time was so cruel. Nevertheless, we have a good marriage and family relationship that can not be taken away from us.

Before taking off, I would like to greet everyone a Happy Valentine's Day! Have a great one!

Finally, a domain name!

After a year of maintaining this blog, finally, a new domain name was purchased today. It took so long, eh? Well, I just realized that this blog needs uniqueness to get more traffic and more paid posts. At the same trying to make up with my uncertainty. Less than $8 a year won't hurt my pocket.

The DNS is not updated yet. Still waiting...I'll update my accounts once done.

For now, I have to halt. It's already 1:47AM here. My system tells me to take a break and rush to bed.

Have a good early morning everyone!

Zoo adventure 2010

So we had a zoo trip today, unplanned trip so to say. Not as exciting as the first one though. We've been to Brec's Baton Rouge Zoo for so many times. Seen the animals over and over again besides the cats. THey were somewhere hidden from the public as the Tiger's Realm, soon to be their habitat is under construction. Anyway, the weather was so nice that time. It was sunny and not windy. It wasn't crowded, too. So great to come during weekdays.

As I mentioned above, it was an unplanned visit and been to the zoo for so many times, thus, we didn't take that much pictures of the animals...just us!

Zoo's entrance

just another family portrait

at the petting zoo

waiting for our food

Christmas 2009

Gift from Mr. Jesse. A talking Asian doll that she loves the most.

Good morning, ya'll!

Feels good to wake smelling the newly baked cookies. The hubby exerted effort on baking after a long night at work. The lil one and I woke up a bit late.

Breakfast was followed by gift opening. The lil one got tons of gifts from relatives and friends. I got some from in-laws and cash from hubby as requested lol. I want cash that I can buy what I want instead of receiving stuff that I don't need and dislike. The hubby got some stuff from his parents, too. I gave him four pairs of socks lol. Not a sweet gift prob'ly but he needs to replace his old ones. Early greetings through cards were received from friends and we thanked them for the thought.

Hope you had a great one!

Merry X'mas to one and all!

Tonight is the eve of Christ's birth. Supposedly, we are having our first family dinner. Unfortunately, the hubby has to work. So it's just me and the 'lil one in this quiet home. Too bad the rain is flooding the earth, too. Thus, I hear no fireworks at all! I peeked at the window and saw nothing but darkness on the road and a dim light at neighbors' home. I wonder what's going on why most Americans are not celebrating the birth of Christ? Why they are not as excited as I am? Why Halloween is more to be celebrated than tonight's event? Another thing to think about while compelling myself to embrace America's culture and lifestyle.

What's making me more sad is that I got nothing from my family back home (Philippines). No card! No hi, hello! No greetings! How cruel these people are? Why am I expecting in the first place when I shouldn't? I have given my greetings and gifts so early and here I am waiting for nothing. I guess it's best to let go and think of the blessings I have.

Thirty more minutes and it's officially the 25th of December 2009! So before that happens, I will be rushing to the 'lil one's bedroom. She is asleep. I wanna celebrate Christmas beside the most wonderful gift I have from HIM. Oh well, I don't intend to stay long on my PC. I better go!

Hope you had a great Christmas!

Snowy night in Prairieville

Yepeeey! It snowed! Yes, I am a bit crazy when it comes to this. Snow is so rare here in the South and when it comes, everybody are so into it.

The snow lasted for just an hour. Good thing the hubby stopped by while at work to spend the snowy night with us. The ground was flooding and was freaking cold but it didn't stop us going out of the house. THe neighbors were happily screamin while playing with the snow.

It did snow last year. People around here said that it comes once every 8-10 years but the prediction was broke when it snowed for an hour last night. Was it global warming? or just a myth? I dunno! Hopefully, snow would visit again next year and yes I want it to last for hours during the day that the 'lil one could play. I will then take pictures of her lol.

Happy Halloween!

Indeed, it was a fun-filled night! The lil one's first trick or treat, so to speak. The plan was just to visit a friend but ended up going hay riding with them. No regrets with the decision of staying. Everyone had fun especially the 'lil one. Next year, we will be doing it again. Hopefully, it will become a tradition 'til the kids outgrown the celebration. Sure thing the lil one will have more years to enjoy.

After trick or treat hours, we headed to in-laws place. THe old people were waiting for the star of the night while watching football game. Yep, you bet! The 'lil one showed off making everybody laugh to death. She has this natural charisma and humor that no one could resist.

The 'lil one's night ended while we headed home. She slept in the car. She must be sooo tired after a long day of fun.

Before I leave, I am leaving some of the photos for you to enjoy.

About to conquer the road.

It's obvious!

Before trick or treat! So ready to hit the road!

Mother-daughter-tandem.

On your Natal Day..

Len with tons of Filipino dishes during her birthday. She just sent this photo to make me crave of the foods lol.

I wanna greet you a Happy, Happy Birthday, Len-len!

You are 24 years old now! Another year older and wiser. Wish you all the best in life. Stay as generous as you are.

Back from hiatuses

It's been a while since the last time I stepped on this blog. My online duties are barely done in a day as I have my own priority -- the 'lil one. It gotten worse when the 'lil girl started walking, talking and very mobile. Everytime I am on my computer, there she goes and wants to to do what I am up to. If I am typing, she wants the keys, if I am browsing, she wants the mouse.

Anyway, I have a great opportunity to update you here. THe 'lil one is actually awake and she's in her room watching Sprout. Once her favorite show is over, she'll be here right quick. Oh yah, she has her own mind now. She knows what she wants and will hold a grudge if she dislikes what you tell her to do. Pardon this 'lil girl's attitude. The hubby and I are on the process of correcting her. Sometimes she remembers that it ain't good but most of the time, she'll do what she wants. Well, she is still a year old. She'll learn and understand in time.

So what I've been up to lately?

The hubby and I are on diet and that limits us from dining out. We had a couple of free days already, not looking forward of having one though. It messes me up and makes me want to eat unhealthy foods all the time. It will take time before free day happens again.

Alright, the Sprout show is over now. I can hear the footsteps of the 'lil one. I have to go before she'll press the keys and delete this post.

See yah later alligator.

Sister to Canada

I never mentioned that my younger sister married a good English man who happens to migrate in Canada. The couple got married in October 2007, three months after I married my man. She decided to stay in the Philippines for nearly two years that her first born could spend time with the family and celebrate first birthday in GEnsan.

While the visa was on the process, Rob, my bro-in-law keeps on visiting his family. He flew in and out of the Philippines spending thousands of dollars just to be with his family every special occasions.

After a long wait, the visa was approved. So today, they are flying in to Canada. THe three of them! I am so glad they made it. Now I am hopeful for them to have a safe flight and a good family relationship together through thick or thin.

Totoy Bato

Totoy Bato is one of GMA-7 Philippines proud and glory. This television series is starred by the finest actors in the industry.

Robin Padilla together with Regine Velasquez and Manny Pacquiao are surely a hit in the hearts of the Filipino people.

The story itself is full of drama and action with a touch of comedy as well.

When this was being promoted weeks ago, I didn't give a damn care. But then when I started watching it online, I begun to fall in love with the story. Everyday (weekdays), I look forward of following each episodes.

I am encouraging everyone to watch this movie-like series.

GMA-7 never fails to give it's viewers the satisfaction they deserve. THank you for bringing Totoy Bato in the lives of the many Pinoy around the world.