September 2013 Monthly Roundup

What books and/or magazines did I read this month?
- Currently reading: Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan

What movies and/or TV shows did I watch this month?
- Epic
- House at the end of the Street

What special days did I celebrate and how?
- My birthday!
- BIL's birthday
- Yssa's 7th
- Seann's First birthday

What illnesses or health concerns did I have?
- Allergies were the culprit of my not feeling well this month :(

What fun things did I do with my friends and/or family?
- The Ate's family day
- A couple of eating outs this month to celebrate birthdays
- Lots of household meetings this month ♥
- Family Day
- A quick massage. Thanks to Deal Grocer for the discount!

What new foods, recipes or restaurants did I try this month?
- Ikkoryu Fokkkuka Ramen
- Kanzhu Handpulled noodles
- Shakey's!
- Saisaki Buffet
- Guevarra's
- Kichitora Tokyo

What special or unusual purchases did I make?
- I bought a few accessories for myself at Forever21.

What were this month's disappointments?
- Still no Yaya as of the moment

What were my accomplishments this month?
- I'm losing hope when it comes to not having a Yaya for the kids but somehow I've learned to focus on the good things in our lives and not dwell on that.

Have a Sweet Monday!

I know, too early to crave for this, but hey, it's the last day of my birthday month! I deserve this...


Just one donut and I'm good! (*wink*)

Have a good one, peeps!

Sharing a Song this SUNDAY: Dance with my Father

I heard about this little boy discovered by Ellen because he got these thousands of hits in YouTube. I saw his video and I was impressed.


Beautiful voice. He's one very talented boy! ♥

Flashback FRIDAY: California in 2001

I will never forget this trip! I was barely a month in Minnesota when my friend invited me to visit her in San Francisco.


It was way back in 2001 and I can still remember how cold I felt when I went there. LOL! It was unforgettable! Good times!

Back at Centerstage for a NIght of Videoke

I can't believe that after a month, we are back at Centerstage again for another videoke session with friends!


This time, we went with our CFC household.


It was another fun night of food trip and of course singing our favorite songs! ♥

Blueberry Chessecake, Please!

If only I can eat this for breakfast like today, I would eat this in a heartbeat!


But yes, I had to set an example for the kids to eat healthy EVERYDAY. No exceptions. Well, except for Sunday, maybe. LOL!

Enroll in Community College to Complete General Credits

Paying for any college has become increasingly difficult over the last several years. State universities have had to increase their tuitions and fees due to states cutting funding to higher education. Private universities have been placed in similar positions as enrollment steadily decreases. Much of this change in funding for higher education has come from the dismal state of the employment market. As the availability for jobs has become smaller, people have found it difficult to justify spending thousands of dollars on an education that has no guarantees in helping find a career after graduation. People who have already graduated can easily tell you that while student loan bills are promised to come every month, a job in their chosen field is not. So as a high school graduate or even someone who is considering going back to school, you may be asking yourself if it’s at all worth it. The answer is yes. Getting a higher education is definitely worth it. The job market will not always be in the state it is now, so getting a degree is worth the time and effort. What has changed is the best route to take in getting the degree. The first step is to enroll in a community college in Colorado.

Community College First

There are several reasons to start at a community college. The first is that community colleges are typically much less expensive that a traditional four-year university, private or not. This means taking out less in loans right away. Second, if you are someone who didn’t excel in high school or took some time off after graduation, it may be a good idea to take it slow and take one or two classes at a time. Community colleges are much more flexible to be able to cater to the wide variety of students that are enrolled. Finally, every four-year university requires a certain number of general credits and classes be completed before graduation. These usually include credits in English or writing, math, computer sciences, and history of some kind. If you attend an accredited community college in the same state that you intend to go to a four-year university in, those completed general credits can be transferred. This could very well save you time and money in the end. Be sure to discuss this with an advisor at both the community college in Colorado and the four-year university you plan to attend later.

Wednesday Happy Thoughts

Happiness is...

1. Two households in one Week! ♥
2. Pancakes from Pancake House
3. Rainy but relaxing Sunday
4. Viber - the cheaper way to chat with family and friends
5. Planning our get together with highschool friends!
6. Simple things that make us giddy and happy
7. Bonchon Chicken!
8. 3-hour nap. Aaaaah!
9. The Selection Series ♥♥♥
10. Christmas Songs

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

Sharing a NICE Article: 12 ways to be the meanest mom in the world

I came across this nice article from a Facebook friend and I thought it would be nice to share it here to help you parents at the same time I can look back to this one when I need affirmations as a parent.

Here goes...

12 ways to be the meanest mom in the world by Megan Wallgre

Once, I walked out of the store without giving into my child’s tantrum for a cookie. A woman stopped me in the parking lot and told me I was the best parent in the shopping center. My daughter wasn’t so sure. When your kids tell you you’re mean, take it as a compliment. The rising generation has been called the laziest, rudest, most entitled kids in history. The stories about spoiled rotten kids scare the best of moms. Newsflash: it's not just the kids, it's the parents. It’s easy to want to throw in the towel with your own kids. After all, don’t we all want to be the cool mom? Don’t give up. They may think you’re mean now, but they’ll thank you later.

Here are 12 ways to be the meanest mom in the world:

1. Make your kids go to bed at a reasonable time. Is there really anyone who hasn’t heard how important a good night’s rest is to a child’s success? Be the parent and put your kid to bed. No one ever said the kid had to want to go to bed. They may put up a fight at first, but with consistency, they'll learn you mean business. Now enjoy some quiet me or couple time.

2. Don’t give your kids dessert every day. Sweets should be saved for special occasions. That’s what makes them a "treat.” If you give in to your child’s demands for goodies all the time, he won’t appreciate the gesture when someone offers a sweet gift or reward. Plus, imagine the dentist and doctor bills that may result from your over-indulgence.

3. Make them pay for their own stuff. If you want something, you have to pay for it. That’s the way adult life works. To get your kids out of your basement in the future, you need to teach your children now that the gadgets, movies, video games, sports teams and camps they enjoy have a price. If they have to pay all or part of that price, they’ll appreciate it more. You may also avoid paying for something your child only wants until he has it. If he’s not willing to go half with you, he probably doesn’t want it that badly.

4. Don’t pull strings. Some kids get a rude awakening when they get a job and realize that the rules actually do apply to them. They have to come on time and do what the boss wants. And, (gasp!) part of the job they don’t even like. If you don’t like your child’s teacher, science partner, position on the soccer field or placement of the bus stop, avoid the temptation to make a stink or pull strings until he gets his preference. You are robbing your child of the chance to make the best of a difficult situation. Dealing with less than ideal circumstance is something she will have to do most of her adult life. If children never learn to handle it, you’re setting them up for failure.

5. Make them do hard things. Don’t automatically step-in and take over when things get hard. Nothing gives your kids a bigger self-confidence boost than sticking to it and accomplishing something difficult for them.

6. Give them a watch and an alarm clock. Your child will be better off if he learns the responsibility of managing his own time. You’re not always going to be there to remind her to turn off the TV and get ready to go.

7. Don’t always buy the latest and greatest. Teach your children gratitude for, and satisfaction with, the things they have. Always worrying about the next big thing and who already has it will lead to a lifetime of debt and unhappiness.

8. Let them feel loss. If your child breaks a toy, don’t replace it. He’ll learn a valuable lesson about taking care of his stuff. If your child forgets to turn in homework, let him take the lower grade or make him work out extra credit with his teacher himself. You are teaching responsibility — who doesn’t want responsible kids? They can help remind you of all the things you forget to do.

9. Control media. If all the other parents let their child jump off a bridge, would you? Don’t let your kids watch a show or play a video game that is inappropriate for children just because all their friends have done it. If you stand up for decent parenting, others may follow. Create some positive peer pressure.

10. Make them apologize. If your child does something wrong, make her fess up and face the consequences. Don’t brush rudeness, bullying, or dishonesty under the rug. If you mess up, set the example and eat your humble pie.

11. Mind their manners. Even small children can learn the basics of how to treat another human with respect and dignity. By making politeness a habit, you’ll be doing your kids a huge favor. Good manners go a long way toward getting someone what they want. We’ve all heard the saying, "You catch more flies with honey than with vinegar."

12. Make them work — for free. Whether it’s helping grandma in the garden or volunteering to tutor younger kids, make service a part of your child’s life. It teaches them to look outside themselves and realize that other people have needs and problems, too — sometimes greater than their own.

With all the time you spend being mean, don’t forget to praise and reward your children for their stellar behavior. And always, make sure they know you love them. Here are 10 things a mom should tell her kids every day. With a little luck, your kids can turn the tide and make their generation one known for its hope and promise. - See more at: http://familyshare.com/12-ways-to-be-the-meanest-mom-in-the-world?Itemid#sthash.woyOUHNo.dpuf

SOURCE.

iOS7, It's finally Here!

Oh iOS7 is finally here! What's up with this new software anyway? Well, there are tons of new features to

Here's a video on how it works and the differences from the previous iOS.

(*Warning, the video is quiet long, but definitely worth watching!*)


iOS 7, code-named Innsbruck, is the next generation of software for iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad, and was introduced by Apple during the WWDC 2013 keynote on June 10. A radical visual departure from previous generations of iOS, it focuses on clarity by removing all but the most essential interface elements and shifting from buttons to tinted text, deference by getting out of the way of content and apps, and depth by building the entire experience around a real, game-style physics and particle engine that moves, blurs, parallaxes, and layers in virtual 3D. New features include: Control Center, Notification Center, Multitasking, Camera, Photos, AirDrop, Safari, iTunes Radio, Siri, and iOS in the Car.

This is way too cool! I can't wait to upgrade soon!

* Video and details grabbed from www.iMore.com

Sharing a Song this SUNDAY: The Climb

I love "The Climb" so much the first time I heard it from Hannah Montana/Miley Cyrus. But I love this version by Ahmir.


Beautiful, isn't it? Perfect for this lovely day.

Happy Sunday, everyone! ♥

Flashback FRIDAY: Our Bohol Trip

Another flashback Friday today! Here's one taken from our trip to Bohol, 3 years ago. Hubby and I had so much fun there!


It was a trip that was definitely unforgettable! ♥

Goodbye and Thank You Misibis Bay!

As much as we would like to stay in the resort, it was time to say goodbye. But before we left, Hubby was able to take very beautiful photos all over...





We had a great time and we love Misibis Bay Resort so much! Would love to go back again to this resort hopefully S.O.O.N.!

Goodbye and thank you Misibis Bay for the wonderful experience!

The Sunset Cruise without the Sun

I know, it sounds funny - "A Sunset Cruise without the Sun". That was what happened to our Sunset Cruise in Misibis Bay (our last activity in the resort). It was too cloudy so we didn't get to see the sun when it had set. But it was ok since the kids had so much fun in the cruise.


We brought snacks with us but they served the famous, "kropeck", so we munched on those all throughout the cruise. It was nice! ♥

Wednesday Happy Thoughts

Happiness is...

1. Raining but Relaxing Weekend.
2. Shopping for Christmas gifts ♥
3. New accessories for me. YEY!
4. More birthday gifts from family
5. Lunch buffet at Guevarra's
6. Family Day
7. Kids for Christ Assembly
8. Two households last week
9. Feeling better now with anti-allergy meds. Thank you Lord!
10. Friends

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

The Kids Loving the Kids Area of Misibis Bay

Apart from our wonderful rooms, the very beautiful pools and the beach, one place that the kids love to return to, would be the play area. It was like a "heaven" for them with all those slides, balls and even gadgets.



The kids probably spent hours and hours here while it was too hot outside.


...and while the kids were having a grand time, Hubby and I took the opportunity to rest. Yes at the playroom!


A little down time for us, while the kids were playing was wonderful. Can't wait for our last dinner in Misibis!

It's Time to go to the Beach!

Aaaaah finally after breakfast, after trying out the zipline, checking out the amazing race pit stop, and the pool, it was time to try the beach.


It wasn't inviting though because of the small rocks and not powdery sands that the kids loved in Boracay but a beach is still a beach! So off we went and stayed there for a couple of hours.


We really love the beach no matter what the sand is.


We can live here for weeks!


♥♥♥

Sharing a Song this SUNDAY: Ablaze

Today is such a beautiful day to praise God so I'm sharing this wonderful song composed by one of my co-members in the community CFC.


I'm yours oh God, I worship you with all my life...

Have a great Sunday, everyone! (*wink*)

The Amazing Race Pit Stop

Another place that we made it one of our favorite is the Amazing Race Pit Stop. It was not too far from the resort so we didn't have a hard time going there. And besides, the resort provided our ride too. ♥


It was so quiet in the area and peaceful too. The kids didn't like the heat too much though, so Hubby and I were the only ones who had our photo taken.


Oh well. At least we had a photo that looked like honeymooners. (*grin*)

And of course, the mandatory jump shot! LOL!



Ah, this is definitely one of our favorite spot in Misibis Bay.

Flashback FRIDAY: My Trip to New York in 2001

This trip was one of the most unforgettable trips ever. I met up with my Mom in NEW YORK.


We toured around the city, took a whole lot of photos, ate the best steak I've ever had and watched my favorite broadway shows.


Definitely one of the BEST!

Our Unforgettable Breakfast Buffet at Misibis Bay

Every resort that we go to, I always look forward to the breakfast buffet. It is always the highlight of our every stay. Same goes to Misibis Bay Resort. It was definitely the highlight of our 3 days stay there.

First, the unlimited and all types of pastries. I panicked the moment I saw every bread there...


Next, the yummy appetizers which were all so good.


Next, the fresh fruits which are so colorful and sweet.


Aside from that of course the omelette, the unlimited coffee, the Filipino and Bicolano dishes which made the breakfast buffet all the more unforgettable. Sigh.

I.WANT.TO.GO.BACK.!

Wednesday Happy Thoughts

Happiness is...

1. Busy but fun weekend!
2. The little girl's family day
3. Starbucks' Cafe Latte on a rainy day
4. Hubby's never-ending love
5. The little girls' laugh and giggles
6. Seeing them both playing together and talking. Such a lovely sight.
7. Birthday Celebrations
8. Highschool friends
9. The Lord talking and affirming me thru other people
10. Strength

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

WE had fun Ziplining in Misibis Bay

On our second day in Misibis Bay, we followed the itinerary that they prepared for us, so after a heavy breakfast, we all went to the site where we can try the zipline.


I was really excited at first but it suddenly dawned on me that I'm doing the zipline with my little girl! So I almost backed out. The thing is, I could do it by myself but it's a different thing if it's with my girl.

Oh well. She, on the other hand was so brave and excited! So we proceeded with the plan...


...and it wasn't scary after all.


My two girls' first zipline was a success! So proud of my brave girls! (*grin*)

Celebrating the Parents-In-Law's 35th Anniversary in Misibis Bay

The main reason why we went to Misibis Bay last May aside from family bonding was to celebrate the parents-in-law's 45th anniversary. And I was impressed by how the staff of Misibis Bay made it special for them.

From the personalized greetings as soon as we arrived to our rooms...


...To the best setup I've ever seen in their room after dinner...



It made the night more special for them. The best way to spend their anniversary. Thank you Misibis Bay staff! (*wink*)

Sharing a SONG this Sunday: Bonfire Heart

Oh, I'm so glad James Blunt is back with a new album!

I love his new song...


Happy SUNDAY, peeps! It is a beautiful day! (*wink*)

Flashback FRIDAY: Highschool Friends

It's so nice to reminisce on the good old highschool days.


Time flies so fast. But I'm thankful that some of my friends in this photo are STILL my friends up to now. I'm very much blessed to have these girls in my life.

Swimming Time at Misibis Bay Resort

The kids were so excited to swim so finally when it wasn't TOO hot anymore, it was time to swim!



Of course they couldn't resist dipping in the pool as soon as they could, but we also checked out the beach too.


Even if there were a lot of stones around the shore, the water was clean and we still enjoyed our swim there too.

Aaaah, it was definitely a beautiful day to swim. ♥


Wednesday Happy Thoughts

Happiness is...

1. Birthday trip to Seoul with the Hubby
2. Coffee everyday!
3. Bonding with the Hubby for several days!
4. Food trip
5. Celebrated my birthday last Sunday!
6. Gifts, gifts, gifts!
7. Ramen
8. Lovely photos by the Hubby ♥
9. Shakey's
10. Feeling better already

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

September Sale at Homeworld

This is a good start of September! There is an ongoing sale at Homeworld which started yesterday, September 1 and will end until the 30th.


I'm definitely going to check it out!

This sale is exclusive for SM Advantage Members only. So, hurry, better get an SM advantage card now!

Misibis Bay Offers a Couple of Nice Activities

While we were booking our trip to Misibis Bay, we checked on their website and got so excited because they are offering a couple of nice activities in the resort.


Of course swimming was the first option that was enjoyed by kids and adults too. The pools were so beautiful!



Other nice activities that you can do are the following:

Water

- Kayaking
- Banana Boat Ride
- Wind Surfing
- Hobie Cat Sailing
- Stand Up Paddle Surfing
- Jet Skiing
- Introductory Dive
- Scuba Diving
- Sunset Cruise

Land

- Segway
- ATV Rides
- Dune Buggy
- Zip-Line at Eco Energy Park
- Kids Center

There are also special tours being offered like the, City Tour (Legazpi and Daraga Albay), ATV Tour at the Lava Wall, Whaleshark interaction Tour, Chopper Tour, Cave Exploration, and Water Falls Exploration.

Sharing a Song this Sunday: You and Me.

Since it's my birthday today, I'm sharing you a song by my favorite band, Lifehouse.


Happy birthday to me! Another year older, but (I think) I've been wiser too. (*wink*)