Cutty

I was going through the events of 2017 in my mind.   I realized that what I have now is exactly what I prayed for.  It was a difficult exercise, a tad upsetting too.  It is not exactly what I expected it to be, but it seems that my prayers have been answered.  I had my own share of joys and disappointments. However, we've been extremely blessed that 2017 seemed easier compared to previous years. Here are some of 2017's highlights:  Javi's first communion Bettina's 7th birthday ... the unexpected passing of my sister-in-law, my father's 65th birthday, the opening of our food business and Vic's fish pond acquisition.  Christmas is more meaningful this year.  Despite all the blessings, I realized that there are still so many people hurting during this most celebrated season.  Because the celebration is simpler, less busy and a bit painful this year, Jesus felt more alive in our hearts.  I do hope you had some quiet ti...

I must hear "Mama" about a hundred times a day.  Come to think of it, that is a conservative estimate.  I have four kids, so that would give them a daily average of 25 per day.  They could easily hit their daily quota in the morning.  But, kidding aside, sometimes, I forget how lucky I am to be called "Mama".  When all four kids want to tell you about their day, at the same time, I forget. When they all want a snack, at the same time, I forget. When I am busy doing something, trying to be invisible, I forget. When all four kids are sick, I forget. When I am busy trying to measure my baking ingredients, I forget. When I see a messy house, school supplies strewn all over the floor, unfinished meals and non-stop bickering, oh,  I REALLY forget. However, when I see an ungroomed child entering the classroom, I am grateful that I am capable of caring for my children. When I get my daily supply of hugs, I am grateful. When I hear an occasional "Thank ...

You know I meant Ukay Ukay shopping.  But, I feel so "alta," because I scored several nice pieces. On our first free day, I went to this ukay ukay joint in Baguio with my mother.  I really had no intention of getting anything. In fact, I told my husband that I was just going to accompany Mama. I only had P2000 with me. Deep inside, I was dragging myself to go ukay ukay shopping.  I can score brand new cheap items from H&M and Uniqlo.  So, why bother? That mindset changed when I saw authentic Jimmy Choos, Louboutins and Dior shoes.  Unfortunately, they weren't my size.  They didn't carry those interesting brands in my size.  But with that fire of interest in me, I went to the other stalls seeing if there is anything worth buying. There definitely is.  Presenting to you my ukay haul.... After careful examination, I therefore conclude that this Phantom is the real thing.  It feels genuine and it looks like one too. I ...

We finally got back from our last family trip this summer.  We don't usually take summer trips.  Our summers are usually spent shuttling between home and summer classes.  We find it cheaper to just stay in the city.  We usually take trips during off-peak season. This time it's quite different.  It has been a whirlwind experience since mid-May.  There was a trip to the province for a family reunion.  A weekend visit to Taipei for Vic and me and some in-laws.  You know, the vacation after the vacation.  It was then followed by my father's retirement party, which I semi-organized. Finally, a trip to Baguio before the kids go back to school. All these trips are partially subsidized.  I don't know how we were able to wing it, but we just did. No, this is not a humble brag post.  I just realized that we had help. ============ Last February, I lost one of my sisters-in-law due to uncontrolled diabetes and its complications. ...