Cutty

I was watching the late news report this evening. Ex-Sen. Ramon Revilla suffered a stroke and underwent angioplasty. His attending physician issued a statement that the older Revilla is responding to treatment. Sobra lang akong na-distract sa eyebrows ni doc. Parang gusto kong ahitin.

I was feeling generous yesterday. Actually, we had some left over from our monthly budget so I decided to start my Christmas shopping really early. I figured that I'd be preoccupied with Baby#2 by then. Ergo, I won't be able to focus on the deed. It turned out to be a good idea since I didn't have to wait in line for my packages to get wrapped.

Due to limited baggage space, here's what Johann and I got from the Big Daddy I never thought Royce chocolates would be this good. The cube variant I previously had were good. However, the Nama variant really melts in the mouth. So glad that hubby brought home quite a stash. Good luck to me and my "elevated" blood sugar.

Reason#1: Inay's (paternal grandmother) first birthday after she passed on last April. We observed this special day with a prayer and a meal. We had pansit (for long life =P) and lumpiang shanghai. Cathy's Kitchen contributed pesto cream cheese bruschetta and banana cake with chocolate chips. Both items got raves from my trusted (read: honest) samplers. Jacob and Johann were getting bored and restless listening to praying adults. Here they are, confined in a room where they can amuse themselves. Reason #2: Kris' induction as a licensed guidance counselor. Kris, my sister, passed the board exam for Guidance Counselors. She will take her oath today at the Manila Hotel. Out of 140+ examinees, only 88 passed. I just read that there will be other practitioners who will be taking their oath, together with the successful examinees. That seems unfair. Reason #3: Vic's pasalubong a.k.a. advanced Christmas present. I told Vic that I didn't have anything specific in min...

I went to the mall yesterday to do some errands and to check out the shoe models that I wanted Vic to bring home. With one last thing unaccomplished, I decided to kill time and enjoy a relaxing foot massage. Upon entering The Spa , I was greeted by a Balinese-inspired interior. At the reception area, I was asked to choose my preferred service from their menu. I couldn't decide between the Feetish Foot Spa (P350, 45mins) or the Peppermint Foot Rub (P750, 60mins). Since I needed the massage more than anything, I got the latter. Upon deciding, I was asked to pay upfront. (This was a first for me, as most spas usually perform the service before asking for the service fee.) I was directed to the Ladies' door. The small reception area opened up to a deep and dark hallway that led to wet areas and massage cabanas. An attendant showed me my locker and handed me a robe, towel and slippers. Since I was just having my feet pampered, I begged off on the robe and towel. Sitting on ...

Since the husband is enjoying himself in Lalah land, I made it a point to make plans for myself while he is away. Yesterday, I decided to hire a driver for the day and make a trip out of it. I don't want to stress myself by driving in the the narrow and confusing streets of Manila. The main target of the day is Divi. But, since we are in the area, I decided to stop by the luggage sale in Juan Luna first. Unfortunately, the place was located on the other end of the street. Turning back, on a one-way street, is nearly impossible. We decided to make that our last stop instead. I initially planned on getting some additional baby stuff for Baby#2. I also wanted to get some new tree ornaments. Mother wanted to get a tall Christmas tree to match the high ceiling of their soon-to-be finished house. My mission was accomplished. I purchased a couple of dozens of gauze diapers at 230/dozen, a couple of milk dispensers at 75 each and a cleaning brush also at 75. I was surprised that th...

The husband is scheduled to fly to Lalah land (borrowed from Deepa) tomorrow evening. We haven't finished packing his stuff. We just pulled all his Ferrari gear from the closet. I just wish his jacket and umbrella hadn't been "misplaced" in the office. If Ferrari came out with underwear merchandise, I'm sure he'd have it, too. I just hope Ferrari wins the race. Or else, he'd be wearing the Talunan outfit.

I received a message just before entering the APO concert. My uncle Mark, fondly called Macksy by his non-Chinese relatives, passed on a few hours after his birthday. Though he is my least favorite uncle, it makes me sad that he left his family so soon. Tito Mark suffered hypertension and diabetes. His very weak heart survived several angioplasties already. Last winter, he flew to Manila to spend the holidays here. His heart and poor health can not bear the harsh weather. A couple of months ago, he suffered a major attack. Knowing that he is no longer a good candidate for a bypass surgery, he made sure that all his affairs are in order. He prepared his children, specially his youngest (Jessica, 7y/o), for his passing. Talking to my Tita earlier this evening, I learned that he even had "habilins" to his neighbors. He wanted to make sure that his family will be okay when he passes on. Though he had a lot of time to prepare, he was still gone too soon. I am forever tha...

Last Saturday was another pleasurable night with music. It was so fun singing along to the music of my childhood. I had no idea what I was listening to then. This time, I understood the music better. Though we arrived late, I was lucky to hear my APO favorites : When I met you Panalangin Magkayakap sa Dilim Batang - bata Ka Pa Mahirap Magmahal ng Syota ng iba Tuyo Na'ang Damdamin Danny's voice was still very clear. He sounded as if he didn't age at all. Buboy showed off his dance moves. Jim was still the pretty boy of the group. It didn't matter if their voices faltered at one time or if they huffed and puffed after every number. Their wit and humor amused the audience. Their over-all showmanship carried them through their 39 years in the business. Of course, they didn't let the night pass without rendering culturally- and socially-relevant songs. Folk and traditional Pinoy music were sung to the tunes of Sting and Van Halen . In their typical...

I'm sure we caused quite a commotion at Greenbelt. We were all squealing with excitement specially when we neared draw #69 and the last one. I was very fortunate to sit beside the two winners. After her name was drawn, Abbie couldn't continue tallying the draws. Lia kept saying she's so unlucky with raffles. Looks like her luck has changed now. It was fun meeting everyone. Congrats to our very lucky winners, Lia and Abbie! I am looking forward to the next N@W meet-up. Ano naman kaya ipapa-raffle next time? -------------------- Please check out my multiply for more pictures.

... the song that topped the charts was Tragedy by The BeeGees. How unfortunate for me and those who share my birth date. But, I shouldn't despair. Tragedy is a song about losing one's love. Vic, on the other hand, was born with "Da Ya Think I'm Sexy" topping the charts. I'm sure that he'd say it's very appropriate. So, what's your song? Check it out here . ----------- Special thanks to the N@W group for sharing this link.

Sept 18 marks the last day of Johann's Gymbabes class. We signed up for this class when they offered 24 sessions for their usual rate. Johann was 11mos old then. As a parent, I never regretted enrolling him in this class. This is where he learned to explore the different activity stations. This is where he became aware of his love for balls. He was exposed to "small people" other than himself. Most importantly, this is where he learned how to walk and run on his own. I'd like to share with you some unforgettable Gymbabes moments: 1. Johann sitting beside the dog (painted on the wall) and kissing the dog hello. 2. Johann bumping into classmates while running around. 3. Johann turning the U-shaped block into a ride-on horse. 4. Johann kissing the teachers goodbye after every session. 5. Johann cutting classes (running around while everyone else is enjoying their massages or reading their books) I never thought that Johann's little achievements (like cross...

This morning I woke up feeling restless. There are so many things to tend to for Baby#2's arrival. Half asleep, I made a mental list of what needs to be done. purchase storage bins and set-up storage racks get a new baby bag for Johann start looking for a nanny or house-help make room for the new house-help Everything in this list, except one, requires a lot of energy and/or major adjustment. This means re-arranging the whole household. I started window-shopping for the first two items this afternoon. The selection in the nearby mall is not satisfactory. I was ready to make the purchase had I seen anything worth buying. The third item requires some networking, which would entail the help of my mother. It would have to wait since she is currently not in the city. The fourth one I am reluctant to commence. It means giving up the guest room downstairs. I will have to turn the current maids' room into a stock room. This means giving the house-help a new set of restriction...

At 31 weeks and 6 days pregnant with Baby #2, I'm feeling more useless than ever. My reflexes are slow. I am less mobile. I am starting to feel sore in places that should've gone sore a few months ago. Last Friday, I had my pre-natal check-up. My UTZ showed several placental lakes. I don't know where they came from. I was advised to be more careful with tummy. Based on what I've read, it is no cause for alarm. However, it may also signify a weakness in the placenta. It may lead to Baby#2's premature delivery. Baby #2 is also nearing his weight limit for his gestational age. Knowing that I had a very difficult delivery with Johann, I was advised not to let him get bigger than Johann (who was born at 6.9lbs via normal delivery). I should start preparing the following: Baby #2's hospital bag sterilize breast pump and feeding bottles Mama and Daddy's hospital bag crib for baby's arrival infant car seat installation arrangements for Johann while we...

Just heard from my mother that my cousin got a positive result when she took the pregnancy test this morning. I am so happy to hear that piece of news. If anyone deserves to be a parent, it is she. Dear cousin suffered from Endometriosis a few years ago. It was so severe that one ovary had to be taken out. The other ovary is mildly affected so it was left behind. All this took place several months before her wedding. This incident was such a heart-breaker because, of all my cousins, she is the one who loves children the most. Since then, she has been undergoing treatments under my mother and my other OB. It didn't help that dear cousin's hubby also need to undergo treatment. I'm wishing and praying that this will be a successful pregnancy. Their baby will be everyone's little miracle.

While I was searching for something to wear for the concert last Monday, I figured I needed something to perk it up. This is what I got. Isn't it lovely? It is even more affordable compared to other local brands.

We got our supply of Bangus (milkfish) this week. In a household of 4 adults and 1 infant, consuming 30 pieces is quite a feat. Now, I am in search of ways to cook bangus. I can only think of 4: Daing Paksiw Sinigang Relleno Out of the four, hubby favors only one. I need more ideas. Help please.

My group, with whom I've shared lots of blood, sweat and tears, are in their final stages of preparations for the 2nd US Tour. This time, ACS will be visiting music schools in the East Coast, Midwest and West Coast. This was done in collaboration with the Ateneo communities and ex-ACS members in the US. A farewell concert will be held at the Church of the Gesu this Sunday, Sept 14. Mass will be celebrated before the concert. For more information, you may check out the ACS website . ---------------- I have been looking forward to this tour since it was finalized in the beginning of this year. However, with Baby#2 due a month after the tour, traveling and singing with the ACS is not a possibility. I wish you all luck. I miss singing with you already. Enjoy shopping!

Why is that people can't settle being the second best? Why do we always have to be the best? Why do we always have to have the best? Is it one's drive for excellence? For popularity? An affirmation of one's self-worth? Or, is it rooted in insecurity? Sometimes , it pays to be second best. One gets to realize that there are more important things in life. Being second best gives one the opportunity to be challenged and to strive for more. It opens the window to other areas that one can excel in. Besides, one can't be the best in everything. One can't have the best of everything. It is God's way of equalizing nature. ------------- Pardon this post. We didn't have electricity for a couple of hours. My mind was bored while putting Johann to sleep.

My mother was rushing me last night. She was afraid that Vic's new toy may be submerged in the flood and that I may not be able to get out. Since it is an A/T car, that would be a very big problem. The car isn't even a month old yet. Our next concern was how to get inside the car. The water was already up to my knees. Only a few more inches and the flood would be able to flow inside when I open the car door. I finally managed to get in and start the car. It was still working. Thank God. With my father paving the way for me in his bigger vehicle, I was able to get out of the deep flood with no problems. The only problem now is that the new set clothes I changed into were soaked. Even if I was carrying my Gucci, I couldn't watch the concert looking/feeling like a drowned rat. I had to rush to the mall to get new set of clothes so I wouldn't be chilly the rest of the night. Thank God for Havin A Baby. Their sale items were nice enough. ----------------------...

One of the trips that I'll be missing out on, now that I am 7 months preggy, is the one with Singapore F1. This is the second trip I'll be skipping for this year. I am really not that big of a fan of Formula 1 racing. The Sepang race three years ago would do. I just wanted to see Singapore since I've never gone there before. To make up for my loss (or missed opportunity to shop), I am making a list of things to do for Vic. This task is actually more punishing because I keep on reading up on places I wont get to see in person. Hay.... Here is my short-list: Try the duck tours or HiPPO tours (ducktours.com.sg) Songs of the Sea show at the Sentosa Merlion Night Safari Singapore Zoo Try the Chili/Black Pepper Crab at Jumbo in Clark Quay Eat at the Kopi Tiam or Food Republic Get Royce chocolates at Suntec (for me) Get F1 merchandise for Johann and for himself Shop at Sim Lim, Vivo or Lucky for cams (for Vic) and other pasalubongs Ikea for some items for the home Meet up...

Apparently, last night's show was a Premier Gala Night. It also served as a fund-raiserfor a foundation called BayaNiJuan. Cocktails were provided by Tamayo's catering. Upon registering at the ticket booth, we were given back issues of Metro and Society magazines. Free coffee was also served during the intermission. I didn't know that the show begins at 8PM. All I knew was that cocktails start at 6PM. Since we were early, we had the chance to sample the hors d'oeuvrs first. The open bar served wines, spiked juices and virgin drinks. Really not bad for the price we paid for our tickets. I was glad to see Joanna Ampil star as the female lead, Maria. Being a singer myself, I am not quite impressed by Karylle's singing style. Ms. Ampil has a wonderful voice. However, the words tend to be unclear when she sings the upper register. She delivered her lines well. I just hoped her Puerto Rican accent was more consistent throughout the play. All-in-all, her West ...

My mother got us tickets to the West Side Story's run tomorrow night. Knowing that it will formally open on Friday, tomorrow's show at the Meralco Theater may just be a dress-tech rehearsal. That explains the 50% discount we got. Not bad pa rin, since we're having cocktails before the show. Will see how it goes. I hope Karylle doesn't fumble with her musical numbers.

I picked up my test result this afternoon. After which, I planned to grab iced coffee from Starbucks. Out of the 4 readings, 2 are a bit elevated based on the acceptable range. I will have to pass on Starbucks, for now. So, what is gestational diabetes? According to a very reliable source, pregnancy hormones make it difficult for insulin to do its job. The pancreas usually produces more insulin to keep up. But, when the sugar level in the blood is too high and the insulin level can not keep up with the demand, it results to this condition. Gestational diabetes causes the glucose to stay in the blood instead of being absorbed by the cells to be used as energy. (Nose bleed!!!) Will it put my baby or me at risk? Yes, it may cause the baby to be hypoglycemic to process the sugar being supplied by the mother's blood. This condition may also result to a very large baby that can not be delivered the normal way. That means undergoing C-section or having a larger episiotomy. Gest...

If you were like Vic and I, you'd commemorate special occasions with good meals. For us, a good meal comprises a good selection of well-prepared food. There was nowhere else to go but to Mandarin's Paseo Uno or to Makati Shang's Circles. Admittedly, we only liked the appetizers. The selection for the main course was nothing to gush about, except for the all-time-favorite, tempura. In the end, I had two helpings of appetizers (smoked salmon with dill, cali makis, gouda and emmental) and a single helping of dessert. Note that there is minimal chocolate on my plate. (creme brulee, raspberry mousse, black forest and baklava) With my blood sugar in mind, I just finished off the creme brulee. As for the rest, I was content with a spoonful of each.

As I was sitting quietly in a corner at the Ambulatory services of the Medical City, the scent of hamburger wafted through the air. In a roomful of people who fasted for at least eight hours, that was sheer torture. For me, who fasted for 16 hours, it was downright inconsiderate. I couldn't concentrate on the very engaging novel in my hands. Why was I there in the first place? In the previous week, my gums bled several times in one day. I had to resort to ice chips and ice-cold drinks to stop the bleeding. It was either a lack in Vitamin C or too much sugar in my blood that is causing it. I was on strict low-sugar (no chocolate, mostly fruit desserts) diet. I had to curb my craving for iced coffee and chocolates. I survived my first pregnancy without gestational diabetes. I hope to avoid it this time, too. The lab test is called OGTT (Oral Glucose Tolerance Test). I was asked to drink 100ml of flavored, sweetened liquid in a span of five minutes. I was glad that it was ...