March 2013 Monthly Roundup

What books and/or magazines did I read this month?
- 20 Times a Lady by Karyn Bosnak
- Reading The Fault in the Stars by John Greene

What movies and/or TV shows did I watch this month?
- We were too busy to watch a movie this month!

What special days did I celebrate and how?
- The Ate's 7th birthday. We all had a blast! Thank you Lord!

What gifts did I give and/or receive?
- We gave the Ate a birthday party!

What illnesses or health concerns did I have?
- Thankful that everyone was healthy this month! The Ate had cough and colds but it was allergies.

What fun things did I do with my friends and/or family?
- Attended a Practical Parenting Talk by Francis Kong
- Went to Baras with CFC friends
- The Ate's birthday party!
- The little girl's moving up day
- Quick lunch to celebrate her moving up day
- Spa date with Mom and sister
- Another nail spa date with Mom and sister after 2 days
- Went to Coron, Palawan during the Holy Week

What new foods, recipes or restaurants did I try this month?
- Summer food in Baras
- Verleo Catering
- Burger, Tacos and Pizza from Army Navy
- Nav
- Seafoods from Coron

What special or unusual purchases did I make?
- I bought a watch and a few arm candies (*wink*)

What were this month's disappointments?
- Not much, still thankful and grateful for all the blessings!

What were my accomplishments this month?
-
- The little girl has survived her first year of school.

Now, summer is really here! Excited for more adventures and trips that await us. Hello, SUMMER!

Sharing a Song This Sunday: Happy Day! Happy Easter!

Wowowow, the one day that I always look forward after Lent - Easter Sunday. Here's a nice song celebrating Jesus' resurrection. I love it, such a happy song!


Thankful for days like today because this is our chance to live a brand new life. Thank you dear God.

Happy Easter, everyone!

Looking for Iphone and Samsung Galaxy Accessories?

Ever since I started using iPhone, I can't help but look for more accessories for my phone. Now, I found an online shop that offers good quality iphone 4s accessories and looks like I'm going to be hooked again! There are a couple of accessories that are on SALE today. And these are accessories of Samsung Galaxy, HTC, Blackberry, iPhone and more. A one-stop shop that offers leather cases, USB car chargers, car chargers, ipod docks, screen protectors and skins.

When I read about Wireless Emporium, they are already in the industry for quite a number of years now. They are offering a free same day shipping so it's look like this is the perfect time to buy those accessories that you've been wanting to buy. I also like this 90 day no hassle return just in case you wouldn't like the item that you bought from them. But I'm sure that will not happen because most of the items were described properly with photos that you need. Since this online shop is up and running, the beauty of this is that you can shop at the comforts of your own home.

If you are looking for the accessories that you need, better shop now before supplies ran out!

She DID it!

The school year 2012 to 2013 is actually the little girl's first school year so we were all excited fo her. I tell you, it was a bit challenging for everyone. We all had to undergo the adjustment stage. But it was all worth it, with the improvements and how much the little girl has grown. Good job, little girl!


Now we are looking forward to the next school year. But for the mean time, we are all on vacay mode for the next two months. So all they have to do in the next few months is to have FUN!

Wednesday Happy Thoughts

Oooops, I almost forgot to post this!

Happiness is...

1. Pre Holy week getaway
2. Loved Coron, it was breathtaking!
3. Nature is Love
4. Buffet Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
5. Holy Week a time to reflect and be thankful
6. Gift of FAMILY.
7. SUMMEEEER!
8. Beach
9. Cayangan Lake
10. Maquinit Hot Springs

To know how this started and credits of the header, click here.

Planning your Getaways for the Summer?

Summer is really, really here! The kids are finally FREE....for now, that is! So what are your plans for the 2013 summer?

I always look forward to summer. I don't like the heat that much but I love that the girls are on vacay, no bedtime curfew, no assignments to do after dinner, no need to wake up early! I love that we get to spend more time as a family. Aside from that, I also love summer getaways! I love to explore, travel and have fun with my family.

That's why I'm interested in getting this tonto verde real estate. They have wonderful houses in Arizona. Having a property there means only one thing, we get to visit the State at least once a year! The Fore Peaks Sales Group offer a couple of properties that you might be interested too. They are always open to help you in selling, buying, renting or investing a property. I guess they are the experts in this industry. So if you are interested, you better call them! Or browse their website by number of bedrooms, bathrooms and location. Browsing over the website is so easy, you won't have a hard time looking for your dream property.

This is why I love the internet more. I get to discover a lot of things and one of it is the dream property that we've been wanting for years now.

Goodbye, Acuatico! We Hope to See you Again!

We knew that one night was not enough to enjoy Acuatico, but we didn't have much choice since we needed to go back to work by Monday. So it was time to say goodbye to Acuatico!


The beach was not maximized since the waves were so huge for the kids to enjoy it. So we just made the most out of the pool, the play area and even our rooms.



Great Service + Clean Resort + Good Buffet Food = Perfect Summer Getaway!


We hope we get to come back to Acuatico again. Because we knew that we will definitely enjoy it again and again and again. (*wink*)

Loving Acuatico Beach Resort's Infinity Pool

With this beautiful and wonderful view of the infinity pool, who wouldn't feel excited of trying it out?






We all definitely felt excited so we tried out the pool as soon as we were done at the beach!

The kids were in Cloud 9. I love that even if we haven't checked in officially yet, Acuatico staff were able to provide towels for us already. I love the service and facilities of this resort. It made our stay even more memorable! ♥♥♥






Hello, Acuatico Beach Resort!

After our traffic-free trip to Laiya, we finally arrived Acuatico past 9AM. The kids woke up from their nap in the car but they were in high spirits. Of course, they are finally seeing the beach after weeks of waiting...


I was also looking forward to this trip because aside from meeting good friends and their families, I needed a break after the stressful days prior to the trip!


I realized that my month or my year wouldn't be complete without going on a trip to the beach!


So YES, this trip is not only for the kids but also for the Mommies and Daddies who deserve a break too!


(*wink*)


Our Road Trip to Laiya, Batangas Last February

Laiya, Batangas has been our favorite beach in Batangas. The sand is not fine and not even that white but we just love the fresh air and the smell of the ocean. But after our trip to Virgin Island Resort, years ago, we haven't been able to visit the place.

But last February, my friends and I were able to book a few rooms in Acuatico after 2 years of planning, we finally were able to go! The kids were so excited, they were so looking forward to it for weeks! They are finally meeting their friends again.

We left our house by 6:10AM. Check in time was around 1PM but we wanted to make the most out of our stay since travel time was around 3 hours. Good thing there was no traffic, we arrived Acuatico, Laiya at around 9AM.


Hello, Acuatico! Finally, we will be able to experience you after years of planning. (*grin*)

Sharing a Song this Sunday: Whom Shall I Fear?

Sharing this beautiful song by Chris Tomlin titled, Whom Shall I Fear?


It's the Palm Sunday today, start of Holy Week. I wish everyone have a blessed day and the week ahead! Happy Sunday!

Celebrate a Sparkling Easter at Sprials!

Are you looking for something to do this Holy Week until Easter Sunday? Here's the perfect event that you might to check out with your family...


Celebrate a sparkling Easter at Spiral!

From the 29th until the 31st of March, enjoy a mouthwatering spread featuring special dishes such as turkey, gammon ham, Easter bunnies
and candies plus an endless flow of sparkling wine and champagne this Easter.

Rate is set at Php 2,950+++ for adults and Php 1,500+++ for children ages 4 to 11 years old for the 31st of March, Easter brunch.

Rate is set at Php 2,750+++ for adults and Php 1,350+++ for children ages 4 to 11 years old for dinner, from the 29th to the 31st of March.

Wow, I think we are going to check this out too! It sounds delish!

For more details, click here.

The Little Girl's 2012 Christmas Play

I know, this post is waaay late because it was supposed to be posted months ago. The little girl's Christmas play last December was a success! The kids have been practicing for this big event for months, and I was so happy with the final play. They all did very well!


The Little Girl as Little Jumping Joan!


♪ ♪ Here am I, little jumping Joan,
When nobody’s with me
I’m always alone. ♪ ♪



Congratulations to my little girl and to all the students for doing a great job in their Christmas play! We are very proud of you! (*wink*)




One Cup of Coffee to Perk me Up Today

Ever since I started working, I've appreciated the power of a cup of coffee. It helps me perk up no matter how small the number of hours I slept the night before. So drinking a cup of coffee is already part of my morning routine. I don't think I can proceed working and do errands without drinking at least one cup.


But now that I'm getting migraines and unknown headaches for the past few months now, I've decided to cut down and started drinking decaffeinated coffee. It still helps me perk up during the day and I can still smell the aroma of my favorite drink. So for the past few weeks, I've been looking for a decaf coffee that tastes good inspite of lesser caffeine. And I found it being offered by Aroma Coffee Midwest. You would be surprised by the variety of decaffeinated coffee being offered by this particular company! They have the popular brands like Starbucks, Seattle's Best Coffee, Folgers and they also have flavored coffee, superior beans and many more. So I'm looking at the site so I could order a couple of coffee that I can drink while at work.

It looks like shopping at Aroma Coffee Midwest would be a breeze. They accept Visa, Mastercard and Discover. Their site is even very user-friendly so I won't have a hard time using it. Unlike most online shops who would require a very technical expertise to be able to buy from them. This particular site is straight forward. FAQ's are also there just in case you have questions about shopping with them.

Coffee would always be a part of my daily routine. Now that there are available decaf at Aroma Coffee Midwest, I'm happy that coffee will not be cut down in my system.

Missing Cyma's Goat Cheese

Oopppa!!!

Yeah, how I wish I could hear that right this moment. I'm missing Cyma's goat cheese...


... and the kebab, pasta and the salad too. Mmmmm... Maybe we could drop by later for lunch!?

We'll see!

Wednesday Happy Thoughts

Happiness is...

1. The little girl's moving up day
2. Gift from Tito Mike!
3. Dinner at Nav
4. Impromptu family lunch
5. Pad Thai, yum!
6. Ate's birthday gifts
7. Summer Vacation is on!
8. Army Navy
9. Hiphop class :)
10. Summer classes

To know how this started and credits of the header, click here.

I Want Big & Tasty.

I know, it's too early to crave for this, but it can also serve as breakfast, right?


Mc Donald's Big & Tasty. I love that it's big and tasty too! Obviously! LOL!

I cannot eat this now but maybe I can order for Hubby and I later for snacks? Hmmmm... We'll see! (*wink*)

Mommy Duties + Me Time = Happiness!

One hot day in November last year, I went to the little girl's school to assist her in a school activity for PE. The activity finished early so I was able to spend my time alone. I was craving for Korean food and I ended up in a Korean Fast Food in Ortigas Home Depot. Just look at how much I ordered!




I wasn't able to finish everything though! Because it was too much. But the Hubby happily finished it for me when I got home. (*grin*)

Sharing a Song this Sunday: I Lift my Hands

Sharing this wonderful song by Chris Tomlin, I life my hands.


♪ ♪ I life my hands to believe again. You are my refuge, you are my strength. As I pour out my heart, these things I remember. You are faithful God I forever. ♪♪

Have a blessed Sunday, everyone!

My Little Girl Attended her First Party of the Year

The little girl's first party in 2013 is her classmate's 7th birthday party last January.


A circus themed party held in one of the nice venues in Ortigas.


There were foodcarts - nacho king, snow cone, and fries. The kids, especially my little girl had so much fun!


So thankful that we were invited. Definitely a fun first party of the little girl for 2013. (*wink*)





A Very Touching Video

Sharing you a very touching video I came across in Facebook.


Let us all love our parents. Be there for them and make them feel that we are there for them.

Happy Friday, peeps! (*wink*)

When I Craved for Red Velvet Cake...

One night, I was craving for red velvet cake so even if it was a Wednesday, mid-week, I asked the Hubby if he could go with me to SLICE. Good thing he agreed!


And we had an impromptu "dessert date". I was so happy I was able to satisfy my craving and he was happy with the coffee he ordered. Will defintiely go back to Slice one of these days and try their main courses.

Slice is located at the new area in High Street, BGC, Taguig.

Wednesday Happy Thoughts

Happiness is...

1. The little girl turns 7 this weekend!
2. We were surprised by my Mom. She arrived from the US to attend the little girl's party!
3. Loots, loots, loots from my Mom!
4. Gift of family
5. The birthday girl is so happy to see all her guests!
6. Friends :)
7. Crunchy Cookie Butter. YUM!
8. Coffee
9. Summer is almost here!
10. New ebooks! WOOT! Definitely made my day!

To know how this started and credits of the header, click here.

Easter Week activities at Holiday Inn Clark

Get ready and EGGcited at Holiday Inn Clark because it will be full of fun-filled activities this coming Easter week...


The “Hoppy Eggventure” will make everyone, especially the kids, busy from March 28, Thursday until March 31, Sunday. Find some knick-knacks at the bazaar, kiddie movie every night, animal show, I Love to Cook Fair 3, a birthday party where everyone is invited, Easter vigil mass, egg decorating, kiddie games and most EGGciting event, the Easter egg hunting… Woooh!

The activities are overflowing…I think this is a perfect time to relax so we might go and check it out! See you at the Easter week in Holiday Inn Clark! (*wink*)

Oz the Great and Powerful

Ever since I saw the Oz's movie poster, I've always been curious about the movie. And when I saw the trailer, all the more I was curious, plus I learned that James Franco is Oz!


So, what do you think? Did you like the trailer?

As for me, I'm definitely watching it SOON!

Sharing a Song this Sunday: Who am I?

I feel so happy today because there are so many blessings to thank the Lord for. Here's a nice song that I would like to share with you today by Casting Crowns.


Have a blessed Sunday, peeps!

Happy 7th Birthday to my First Baby Love!

W.O.W. Where did all those 7 years go? Today the Ate is officially NOT a baby anymore. We are celebrating her 7th birthday!


I feel like it was only yesterday when I had a checkup with my OB and then we were ordered to check in because it was time to deliver. Yes we were prepared, baby bag, baby stuff, going home outfit, lamasse lessons, we were well equipped. But NO ONE can ever get prepared for labor. But still, it was one of the memorable event that happened to Hubby and I. Our first born came before 12 midnight after almost 24 hours of labor. The moment was magical and Hubby and I will be forever grateful for blessing us with our wonderful first born.

Happy birthday, Ate! You made our lives complete. You gave our lives meaning and because of you we will forever be grateful for the gift of you. We love you!

Our Flight back to Manila on New Year's Eve

After 6 days of shopping, exploring and eating at Vietnam, it was time to say goodbye. Our flight as New Year's Eve so we didn't get to celebrate it anymore. Well, it was not the first time that we didn't celebrate NYE anyway, since everytime we travel, we will be either at the airport or my brother's house resting after a long flight.



When it comes to NYE, we haven't been following the tradition for the past few years now. But we don't mind, as long as we had a great trip and as long as we are together, that is fine with us.


And besides, we already had a great trip! WE couldn't ask for more! (*wink*)

Now, it was time to go back to reality. It was time to go home. And boy, look what greeted us in the immigration...


Yeah, we arrived around 4AM and this is what greeted us. Two long lines because most of the immigration windows were not open. OH well.

Thank you Vietnam for giving us everything we wanted. Hopefully we get to explore more of you probably in the next few years.

The Water Puppet Show in Ho Chi Minh

Our final but most awaited activity while in HCM is the water puppet show. The kids have been looking forward to it because we haven't done anything kid related during our entire stay in Vietnam. So, finally after waiting for hours at the cafe it was time to go see the Water Puppet Show.



I tell you, I got bored and almost fell asleep (I was tired also!). But the kids enjoyed it so much. I think I can say that it was worth watching. The songs were not translated to English though but the kids loved it.



Before we went back to the hotel for our ride to the airport, we had dinner buffet first. It wasn't too special and the food was just so-so, so I won't blog about it anymore.

Wednesday Happy Thoughts

Happiness is...

1. Chapter Assembly
2. Fellowship
3. Relaxing Weekend
4. Dinner at Sumo Sam, thanks Dad!
5. Quick malling last Saturday
6. Quick trip to Baras, Rizal with Household
7. Food trip
8. Fresh air!
9. Viber/Line, Quick way to access friends
10. Preparing for the Ate's 7th birthday party

To know how this started and credits of the header, click here.

Looking for Other Home Accessories?

I know that there are days when you look for a material during house construction and you just couldn't find it wherever you look. I'm glad I found hand wheels from reidsupply.com today. These are just the materials that are so hard to find. I was surprised that you can even find it online. Woot! So if ever we will ba having another house construction (which probably will happen in the next couple of years), I will definitely look for the materials online particularly ReidSupply.com. They have everything you need from Knobs, Handles & Hand Wheels. Levers are also one of their products. Oooh, these are one of those days that I truly appreciate the internet. Thank you!!!

The Little Quaint Cafe in HCM

While waiting for our 6PM Water Puppet Show and right after shopping at Ben Than Market, we had so much time to spare so we decided to hang out at the nearest cafe. There were so many cafes around HCM, but we went for the first cafe we found because it was getting hot already. And we were surprised, the cafe was so nice.





And the coffee was not too bad at all! The cakes and cupcakes were just so, so, but the coffee, Hubby had to order one more cup!


Just look at the selections of this cafe, I had a hard time choosing which one to order. Good thing we had the whole afternoon to try all of these...



I definitely love this cafe. Hopefully a similar quaint cafe would open here in Manila. I would definitely visit that cafe at least once a week.

Happy Monday, everyone!