Definitely A Savior

When I learned that I need to wear eyeglasses I didn’t have any choice but to deal with it. I already knew how expensive it will be since I have seen my parents change eyeglasses every two years and sometimes depending if the prescription changed through out the year. To add to it, my eldest brother started wearing his eyeglasses when he was only 3 years old. Good thing I started wearing one when I was already teaching or else it could have been another expense for my parents.

When I moved here in the US, I was so worried with how expensive a single pair of eyeglasses is. Ryan took me to an optometrist and in the end for 2 pairs of eyeglasses; we were able to pay $300.00. Imagine having to spend that much every year or the most two years. That is just too much that is why I couldn’t thank a good friend for introducing to me Zenni Optical. You know what is cool about them? They are based online with a wide selection of stylish frames to choose from. They even carry Holiday frames just perfect for the holiday season. You can get a complete pair starting at $8.00. With how cheap that is, you can even afford to buy as many as you want depending on your mood and style. So from now on, I will get my prescription elsewhere but I will definitely buy my eyeglasses at Zenni Optical.

Writing

I really thought that when Papa gets here I will be able to finish a lot of my writings. My issue before was I hate to leave Frankie in the living room that is why I try to write when Ryan and Frankie are asleep. Although opportunities are not that much these days but I am still glad to have something to write in my blog. Unfortunately since Papa got here I have been really bad with it. I felt like there is so much to catch up that when we are all up I try to spend time with him and Frankie as much as possible. I try to leave them occasionally to write but I won't be able to concentrate anyways because they are giggling and just have so much fun in the living room. This morning I tried to write before we leave for lunch but both of them were playing with the drums were so noisy. I left what I started and joined them. The tasks that I have reserved has expired on me left and right. What I also noticed is I used to feel guilty especially on expensive ones but lately, it seems like I don't care anymore. As Ryan said I am so burnt out from writing and I couldn't agree more.

Health Insurance Drama

Ryan and I agreed that as soon as Papa gets in we are going to get him his health insurance right away. He has already compared different health insurance before Papa came and we decided to go for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois. We have the same health insurance provider and to have the same service we are getting we have to pay a reasonable amount. When Ryan got home yesterday, I wasn't ready for his bad news. There is actually a waiting period for non US citizens to get a health insurance and that would be 6 months. He has to have a physical exam also which is done within the United States. So this means he will not be able to drive soon. We are getting him the booklet so that he can start reading and take the written exam. I wasn't really expecting this. I would hate for the idea for Papa and Frankie to get stuck here in the house while Ryan and I are at work. I guess I just need to deal with it. Before I know it, it will be June.

New Year, New Look

In a few days from now it is going to be the New Year. So what is your New Year’s resolution? Since I have lost 15 lbs so far and 8 lbs away from my pre-pregnancy weight, I want to keep it that way. I also would like to have a new look to go with my weight loss. That would be really nice but since I wear eyeglasses and couldn’t afford to get them elsewhere, I will be getting mine from the popular online eyeglasses shop called Zenni Optical. At the convenience of your home, you can order your next Holiday Glass Frames from Zenni Optical. You have nothing to lose but instead save for it only cost you $ 8 Complete Rx Eyeglasses. It is surely a great way to start the New Year.

Interesting

When Ryan took me to the cemetery where mom is rested for the first time in 2003, I was surprised. Do you want to know why? Well if you look at the tomb stone closely, you will see Mom's name in the bottom and on top of it is Dad's name. I looked at Ryan and said, "is that Dad's name?" and he said yes. My initial reaction was, how come? He is still alive. My mama said the same thing too. It even had the year he was born and year 20 so that it would be easy to add the additional number. I guess it doesn't bother them here in the US but for people back home and to me, it will surely freak me out.

We Need A Cheap Car Insurance

We already found a health insurance for Papa and now we are looking for a cheap car insurance. We had ours for a long time but we want something cheap. Unfortunately, with so many car insurance out there, it is hard to decipher which is the best. Good thing I found out about www.2insure4less.com where by just answering simple questions, we can get auto insurance quotes to compare. What I like about www.2insure4less.com too is they have insurance guides to help you through the finding process. They even have insurance blogs to educate you about different insurance and insurance savings tips that will help you in the decision making once you found and compare one. Most of all it is free so you don't have nothing to worry about.

A Little Break From Winter

I am so happy and glad that the past two days have been bearable. In fact Papa, Frankie and I were out earlier cleaning the backyard. It was really bad last week that I dread driving to work so this was a much needed break. I am not quiet sure what will be the temperature tomorrow but all I know is it is not going to snow until Friday. It also helps Papa a lot to adjust to the temperature little by little. When he first got in last Saturday we picked him up and I was wearing a sleeveless top underneath my thin coat. When we got home, he took his jacket and he started shivering. I surely am a little used to the coldness. Thank goodness for thermal underwear because it really kept him warm. We bought him 3 already but didn't get him the bottom. We went to Target Tinley earlier and they were all out of the pants. I should have picked one when Frankie and I got him the thermal top. I just didn't realize how helpful it is because I never wore one.

I Need An Upgrade

It seems like I may have to get a bigger notebook memory for my computer. You see, I have all the pictures of Frankie downloaded in my computer. Not to mention files and files that I have accumulated through the years. Frankie has a lot of videos when he was growing up that I hope to transfer that in a DVD to keep. I have also downloaded some cool stuff from the internet and that too adds capacity to my memory. Besides, getting an upgrade now has never been so easy with Memorysuppliers.com. You can easily browse by memory type or search by model. They even sell digital flash cards for your convenience. You should check them out.

Our Christmas

As I have mentioned we had our Christmas in Chicago. We got together at Noelle's mom's nursing home just like what we did during Thanksgiving. It was nice to see them again. Frankie was even more excited when we were joined by 3 other kids. He was so happy and the brothers were so nice and friendly to him. The kids also enjoyed opening their gifts. Frankie got a book that he immediately pretended to read.

Two of the places he loves going when he gets away is the computer and the piano. He just loves pressing it because it makes a sound. We had a nice Christmas and we liked to celebrate it with Noelle because it was also her birthday. We didn't stay long because we still have a lot of cleaning up to do in the house.

It's Never Too Late

My small family joined my mother in law’s family in Chicago last Christmas. There were so many foods that we feasted and later exchanged our gifts. As I was watching the kids including my son happily opening their gifts, I couldn’t help but thought how lucky they are to receive something for Christmas. Not all kids out there are lucky and blessed enough to get something. I thought of my family back home and most of all I thought of our living heroes and their families and wondered if they also received something for Christmas. Thankfully there is Sears Heroes at Home Wish Registry where everyone can make a difference to the families of those who have continued to inspire this country. Before I go any further, I would like you check out this touching video below.



Can you feel the pain that the father felt while thinking of his daughter? The families of our servicemen need our help. They need things that might be nothing to us but means everything to them. Just like the little girl in the video who needs a pair of gloves to keep her hands warm. Currently 1,398,036 contributions were made to Sears Heroes at Home and you can still give. What is even better is your donation is none tax-deductible. It’s not too late, you can still donate today.

On A Date

My brother Gayfred was generous enough to send my parents on a date. So when I called to greet them a Merry Christmas, they both were getting ready to head out. When I talked to mama, she doesn't know where they are going but when I talked to Papa, he said he will take her out for lunch. Then they will visit San Fernando so that Papa will bid goodbye to mama's parents and also to Lahug where my grandparents are. They will also watch a movie and dine out for dinner. I can't wait to know how everything went. When I was teaching we used to chip in and send them on a regular basis date but it's been a while since they last do that. I am glad that they are doing it one last time until mama will join us/him here.

Dinner At Work

Missing 4 people

As I said I have been extremely busy these days. We successfully had our little get together at work just for our team. Unfortunately, 4 of our team members were not scheduled so as you can see, it is only 6 of us. We had so much to do but we managed to sit together for 20 minutes for a little chit-chat. At the end of the night, we decided to leave what we brought so we have something to munch on the following day.

Of Being A Mother

Do you remember when the pregnancy test turned out positive? I can never forget how that day changed our lives. I was so excited, scared and I can’t believe that I will become a mother soon. It was one of the most unbelievable feelings I felt in such a long time. It was another story too when Ryan and I saw and heard for the first time our son’s heartbeat. I had tears in my eyes through out the entire time. Frankie is the ultimate gift Ryan and I received. As a parent, we try to protect our children as much as possible just like how our parents protected and helped us to be what we are today. No parent would want to see their children suffer especially with an illness when it could have been prevented in the first place.

What if I tell you that you can give the gift of hope and life to someone you know and love through C'Elle? Would you be interested? C'Elle is a revolutionary service that allows us to safely collect potentially life-saving stem cells found in our menstrual blood. The monthly cycle that we hate to have every month have stem cells in it that can be used as possible life saving treatments for diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, MS, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's and more. The way I look at my monthly cycle will never be the same again. What I like about C'Elle and their service is they definitely are helping mothers and women out there save lives especially to the ones who are dear to them. Don't you think C'Elle is the greatest gift you can give this Christmas?

Super Busy

I am taking a little break from the craziness around here. I am trying to make some goodies for the get together tonight and will be making some salad and tacos for dinner. Frankie is taking a nap right now. While I am baking I also tried to iron some going out clothes so we have only 1 basket left. I did Ryan's clothes first so I don't have to worry about anything. Tomorrow I will try to clean the entire house (hope so!) especially the bathrooms. I made another 3 reservations again but I am sure I will not have time to write them. I am off again and have a wonderful night.

Isn't She Sweet?

I was checking out my sister Ging-ging's profile in Tagged when I found these. She profess how she felt to all of us and I thought it was really cute. She had like 500 friends in that site and she wants everybody to know. We never forget to show and to tell everybody how much we love each other. It just feels different when you see something that you didn't expect. Here is it.

For papa,

Pa,thank you for all the encouragement, support, and love pa...and i want to grab this opportunity to enjoy being you here with me/us.. Few days from now, you will be going to leave me.....i will surely miss you pa, i will miss the SIMBANG GABI that we usually do before Christmas, i will miss everytime i kissed you on your chick and say THANK YOU PA, for the gift,treat,and favors...THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING PA, I LOVE YOU...

Happy trip pa, God bless you always...im happy for you papa and finally Manang in-in will be going to see you pretty soon..

For Mama,

Ma, i know that i'm one of the reasons why you can't go to Chicago with papa..sorry ma, and im thankful also because you're here..lol..and i can see you everyday..

i love you so much Ma, thank you for all the help you've done to me/us. i really appreciate it ma, you're AMAZING, no one can replace you in our hearts...Best Mom ever.

For my Big brothers,

hmmm...just wanna say thank you also for always being there when i need you....thank you nong(280) and manoy (500)for the PINASKOHAN..hahaha..and thanks also for all the teases nong, ganahan kaayo ko,, perti..hehe

i love you both...

For my beautiful sisters,

Thank you also for the support, especially about my lovelife, studies and attitude..you never stop giving me advices that makes me strong and a better person...thank you....I'm so blessed to have a loving and caring sisters like you, ng In-in and ng Intik....i love you so much...

Last Minute Gifts

Ryan, Frankie and I were supposed to go out today to get some last minute gifts for Papa but the wind chill is -20 degrees outside. Ryan went to a local store to pick up something after his overtime today and he can’t believe the amount of people that were also in there doing their last minute shopping. When I check to see if the side street is clear, ours wasn’t so I told Ryan that we can just probably browse online and to see what the store have. Sometimes looking for that one gift can take a while when you don’t have any idea what to get. That is why I am currently browsing at last minute gifts from Kmart so that Ryan can probably just get it himself if this cold weather is not going to subside. I really don’t want to drag Frankie around in this brutal cold.

What I like about Kmart is they have 25,000 different quality gifts for under $25.00. That surely helps to know especially to families like us who are watching our budget but didn’t want to sacrifice gift giving. Ryan and I already told my Dad to leave his tools back home so we want to get him this Craftsman® 23-inch hand tool box with comfort handle that is only under $25.00. Isn't it a good deal? So for your last minute shopping head to Kmart.

What A Drive

I made sure to leave early yesterday for work because I didn't know how bad is the main road. I know the side roads were really bad because I can see it outside our window. I am not sure if it has been cleaned but it the road is still covered white. I also needed to get something for Ryan and I want to have enough time to look around before clocking in going to work. Western Ave. wasn't that bad but when I got to Steger Rd. it was really awful especially by the forest preserve. I know there are no houses there but there are people who still take that route. The worst part is, my car is small and it was touching the ice in the middle of the road to the center of my car. It was how bad it was. As I got by shell it was a little better. Coming home was another story as the temperature dropped overnight and it was so windy. Most of all I am just glad and thankful that I got home safely and I wasn't stuck. I would hate to call Ryan in this kind of weather with Frankie in tow. As Dad always tell me, "if you are not certain, drive slow and those who wants to tailgate you, then they can do that all they want". I hate driving with snow.

My Wish

Everyone has a wish, young or adult. It is something that is free, we look forward and we want to happen. For kids, the ultimate goal is to be able to sit on Santa’s lap so that they can whisper to him their wish. My son is still too young to understand since he is still afraid of Santa but when he is ready, I am sure he will have his wishes ready for him. Can you imagine an adult like me and you fall in line to sit on Santa’s lap and tell him your wish? Would it be a little embarrassing, don’t you think? Well, what if I tell you that you can tell Santa your wish regardless of your age without leaving home? Yes you can and it is as simple as checking out this page.

It is so easy to get started. You can upload a photo of yourself as shown below.

After uploading a photo of you, Santa will automatically get it in his CEIVA digital photo frame, Santa takes it and you are now sitting on Santa’s lap. Your wish will also be shown in the big wish book where Santa will be checking. Look at mine below.

This is the beauty of the new CEIVA digital photo frame. Regardless of where you are located in the world, you can send photos instantly from a computer and even from a cellphone, so you never have to miss out any get together or celebrations ever again. CEIVA digital photo frame has truly brought the digital photo frames to the next level. Not only that, if you got a wish, you can join their sweepstakes where 1 random entry is selected each day of the contest to win $500.00. So why don't you give it a shot. Your wish could be the next one granted.

My Number One Fan

One of the many things that is nice when you have a baby is you can always expect someone to eat what you cooked and it will always taste yummy to them. That is why when they grow a little older they will always look for mom's cooking and that is the same thing with me. I truly missed how mama cooking. I had ginataang monggo yesterday but didn't bother giving Frankie some. Ryan made some lasagna so I decided to give him that instead. Today, I felt like making some bihon and I was so happy that it turned out really well and tasty. Frankie had some for lunch and he really liked it too.

Can you tell? Anticipating the big bite.

All Roads Lead Home

It has been a while since I last seen a moving or touching movie. It seems like most movies these days are either fictional, love story or with a little violence in them. It’s not that there is anything wrong with them. It is only for entertainment anyway that is why Ryan and I still watch those kind of movies every once in while but I don’t recommend it when Frankie will be a little older. We usually order pizza, bread sticks and chicken wings depending on what time we will watch the movie. There are also some days when we just sit and pop a bag of microwavable popcorn and enjoy the movie while our son is asleep or playing. I always love watching movies that are based in true events. I like the simplicity it brings to those who are watching it. As I said it’s been a while since I last seen one, that I don’t even remember anymore what was it, although there is one movie that I would love to see with my family. It is entitled All Roads Lead Home The Movie. I watched the trailer below and I couldn’t help but have tears in my eyes. See it for yourself.


There are times when we neglect or take for granted the people that we love until they are gone? Sounds familiar? I am sure the guilt will eat you alive as I have been through that before. I always tell myself, I could have done this or that but in reality it is too late. It is a movie with full of lessons to learn for both young and adults. I can’t wait to get my own copy.

What A Pain...

and Ryan and I are so irritated right now. So see, we were never a big fan of my OB. There were a lot of things during my pregnancy that could have been dealt better but because I am always handled by interns so it didn't happen. Anyways, this is like the third or the fourth times that this happened to us. Earlier today we got another bill for a March 2007 visit and for my visit last June 2008 asking for our payment. The previous bill was their mistake because they still used the wrong insurance even after so many times I gave them the updated one. Then came the third one demanding us another pay again when they obviously had all my insurance's information. Ryan was so mad that he wanted to call billing himself but they left already. Ryan called Blue Cross Blue Shield and they said they never got any bill from them. What I don't understand is if other clinics can get their money really fast from our insurance, why not them. The rep from BCBS personally called them and they had our correct insurance, so I don't know what is wrong with them. Thank goodness I don't have to deal with any of them as I am so looking for a different OB. Besides, who knows if we even want to have another one. We are done!

Online Door Designer

One of the main things that Ryan and I find very attractive in our house when we first saw it while in the market was the main door. I don’t know what she did with it but she surely picked a very nice door that complemented the outside and of course the inside of the house. It also came with a beautiful glass design and the color she picked was just perfect. I also heard compliments from people who have visited the house about that door. But what if I tell you that you can now design your own door at your fingertips? Yes and by taking advantage of the Online Door Designer.

It is pretty simple actually. You don’t need to be an engineer to design your own door. You start by selecting the door type you want to use. Then you also select your door style from the many different styles to choose from. You can then pick and add a glass design to your door and once you are done, you can now upload a photo of your home to see how would the door that you created and designed would look in it. It is easy, isn’t it? Most of all you know exactly what to get when you decide to get it rather than seeing the result last minute when you order it elsewhere. It will surely save you time and money. You should check it out.

One Of These Days

I am going to pick one day and not open the computer and just do stuff around the house. Well maybe open the computer to check my email then that's about it. We haven't put up the Christmas tree and the gifts are in bags and bags inside our closet for Frankie and for other peps. I was hoping Papa can help me wrap them but since he can't make it in time, then I may have to do it all by myself. The good thing is Frankie is still very little to understand so it is still ok if I start wrapping them while he is around and up. Ohh.. and let's not forget the clothes. I already put away all of Frankie's clothes while watching a movie earlier and I still have so much to iron. I will probably won't pick tomorrow because I have to work but Thursday sounds very promising. Besides I only have two dues tomorrow to write. I can't wait to have some help that is for sure. Ryan said yesterday that it would be nice that we can now watch a movie together again or go on a weekend getaway for our anniversary without worrying about Frankie. That's why Papa's first assignment when he gets here is to study for the written exam. so that he can start driving soon. Yay! Exciting!

What A Big Mistake

I can never forget the few times Ryan and I visited a couple of casinos. On our first anniversary we went to Wisconsin Dells and that was my first casino adventure. It was so clean and spacious. There was a no smoking section that Ryan and I really had a wonderful time staying by the slot machines. On the same year, we went to Ontario, Canada with a couple of friends to visit the falls. The first night that we arrived we all decided to check the new casino they have. I don’t know what has gotten to me but I accidentally left my purse in the hotel. Meaning I didn’t have identification with me that when we were about to get inside the casino, the security guard stopped me asking for my identification. Teenagers or anyone under 18 were not permitted to get in. I told him that I left my purse in the hotel and that I was 24 years old, who just got married a year ago but he wouldn’t believe me. It surely was a nice compliment but at the end of the night, he still didn’t let me in. Had I known that there are a lot of online casinos that I can play slot machines with, I should have not wasted my time being in the long line to get in. Ryan and I watched the fireworks instead by the falls and went back to the hotel. The next day we came back to the casino to check what they have to offer but what a big mistake. We were only there for 10 minutes because smokers and smokes were all over the place. I can’t stand it.

Cooking Some Goldfish

When it is awfully quiet in the living room that is when something is going on. I was in the kitchen preparing lunch when I didn't hear Frankie. He was in the living room with his goldfish in a bowl. He was supposed to be watching Sesame Street. I usually give him some snacks since we got up a little late and then something heavy for lunch. I peeked to see what he was doing and I wasn't surprise at all. He was cooking some goldfish in our vent. He was so into what he was doing that when I took a picture he didn't even realize it (flash off) and when I said "Frankie" he started running away and left the evidences but later came back again. I had to cleaned up all the fishes there or it will get fried in the vent. See how much it is to have a baby around? ^^
BTW, he can easily climb up in our drawer now where he can get the spoons and the ladles so that is how he got one out.

Play Casino Games at Home

I have been complaining on how cold it has been lately. Good thing, I have always been a homebody or else staying home all the time will drive me crazy. It also helps that I work during the night 3-4 times a week to get out of the house every once in a while and have time for myself. Winter is also the time when people tend to get depressed but they didn’t realize that there are a lot of fun things to do while at home. When I get bored I check out the news online, surf or read other people’s blogs. Some people that I know use the internet to play in an online Casino. Who would want to leave their house in this kind of weather just to be in a casino when you can actually enjoy the same games while at home? I got to tell you, people are getting smarter these days by using the internet to its full potential. I would be too.

Frankie's First Christmas

I was going through the videos that Frankie and I recorded through my lappy and I found this one exactly around this time last year. Look at how cute, little and no hair he was. I used to sing to him and he just dances like that. This was also the time when I had a terrible break-out that is why as you can see I am trying to hide from Frankie. We recorded it for my mama for Christmas and forgot to give it to her. So this year there will be no more forgetting as Frankie and I already sent it to her and she was so happy and laughing at how cute he was. They surely grow so fast and I am glad we have something as a reminded of his littleness.

Diet Pills

One of our neighbors who migrated here in the US first once told me that, in a mall, all you see are overweight people. I believed her but when I got here, I can’t believe how she exaggerated her story. Yes you are going to see some over weight people but there are also people that are fit and healthy. In fact, I know a lot of people from work who are very conscious with their weight. One loved working out and because of her age she has to take diet pills as a supplement and it works well for her. The other one is ok with dieting while another co-worker seems to find pleasure with walking and that is how she has been losing weight. So the next time, I won't believe anything she says unless I see it for myself.

Accomplishments At 30

This is a long overdue post since I turned 30 almost a month ago but it is better late than never. Well I think I have accomplished a lot at the age of 30. I believed that I have helped my family to the best that I can. Well let's start from the very beginning.

1. At 30 I have a degree and started with my MA and hoping to finish it soon as well. Despite the challenges and the lack of funding when I was in school, my parents managed to get me (us) through college and to me that 4 years is indeed an accomplishment.

2. I taught for 3 year and although it was short-lived, I was happy to be able to have an impact to some of my students life. We still chat, talk and communicate after all these years.

3. I got married to a wonderful man named Ryan and moved here in the US which will be 6 years this coming January 11. It was rough in the beginning. I was missing my family so much but Ryan was always there for me and it made the adjustment a lot easier.

4. This might not be a big deal to some but to me I consider these as my accomplishments.
a. Passed the written test exam and got my driver's license after my first try after 6 months of getting here.
b. Passed the entrance exams that was given to me at Governors State University for my masters.
c. Passed the TOEFL
d. Got a job and was promoted twice.

4. Ryan and I purchased our first house together.

5. I gave birth to a beautiful baby that we named Francis and we called Frankie. He pretty much takes our time and seeing him grow everyday is such as amazing feeling.

6. I became a US citizen after living here for only 5 years and currently looking into doing dual citizenship.

7. Helped my sisters through college. Resty already graduated her degree and now waiting for Ging-ging to finish.

8. Petitioned Papa to come live with us and that will be soon.

9. Continuously helped my mama with her medications and financial support through my blogging and part time job. In June of next year, we will be petitioning her too.

10. Met a lot of wonderful people through the years and had some that were worth to keep.

11. I have been to places which I thought I will only see in postcards and with that I thank Ryan.

That's all I can think for now and with all that said, I thank Him for always being there for me/us.

CRO

It is interesting to know on the different things we bloggers would do just to drive traffic to our websites. We blog hop, try to leave messages in other people’s blog or website hoping that they will give back the favor. What if I tell you that there is another way to increase traffic in your blog and that is by taking advantage of the conversion rate optimization. So what is (CRO)? It is the art of persuading your readers and visitors to take action to your advantage. A lot of companies out there would pay in advertising such as placing ads in different sites just to drive traffic and visitors to their website. With CRO, it will help you maximize your conversation rate by making your website more persuasive to the visitors, hence they will keep on coming back. If you want to learn more about this revolutionary way of bringing traffic and increasing leads and sales, don’t hesitate to check them out.

Don't Know Where To Start

We are extremely busy these days. Ryan was asked to work again tomorrow for over time which is ok to me because he will only be gone in the morning while Frankie and I are asleep. We have so many plans to move stuff around from our bedroom, to the second bedroom and to Frankie's bedroom. My initial plan was have Frankie and Papa in the same bedroom so that we don't have to break our second bedroom which we used as our little office but Ryan wanted Papa to have his room and his privacy of course. So that is our problem we don't have time to be moving stuff around. Hopefully tomorrow afternoon we can do that but we also need to go shopping because it has been a while since we last went as a family.

My brother Gayfred told me that if it is really impossible for us to make time then we just have to wait for Papa so that he can help us move stuff around. He can use Frankie big bed to sleep anyway for a couple of days until we will finally set up everything for him. Ryan and I wants everything to be ready for him so we'll see if we can make it. We still don't know where to put the computer and the 2 printers and the 1 scanner. In our bedroom perhaps? Unfortunately there is not phone jack in there for the computer. Hahay! I will probably get Ryan his own laptop so he won't have to mess with the other computer and Papa could use the PC when he wants to talk to the Philippines. I have to check how much I have saved so far for Ryan so that we don't have to move anything which I am sure he will say, "save your money Sweety". That is why I would rather get it for him right away so that he won't oppose to it anymore because it is there.

Tape Drives

To be honest with you, I don’t know what tape drives are for before but when I searched the internet about it, according to wikipedia.org, tape drives are supposed to read and write the data that are stored inside a magnetic tape. If you need one for your business, there is no other place to get them new or used but at Minnesotacomputers.com. They even offer repair services on your existing tape drive and they also sell top brand tape drives. So the next time you need one don’t forget to check Minnesotacomputers.com out, they will have it ready for you.

Fixing His Lappy

One of the many toys that Frankie liked is his little lappy from Recel and her family. They sent it to him last year, I think it was around this time for Christmas. There is really nothing wrong with it but it just needed a new battery. Ryan and I kept forgetting to get him a battery every time we are in the store. He used to sit right next to me while I do something in my computer and he plays with his lappy. Well recently since it hasn't been working, he must have thought that it was busted. He went through his toys and found this screw driver that his Dada has been looking for. I don't know how it got there but I sure am glad he found it. He laid his lappy on the floor and pretended to be fixing it. He was giggling while doing it. I don't even know how he learned to use the screw driver to help fix up things. He must have seen it with his Lolo and Dada when they fix stuff in our house. Children are so smart these days.

Unlocked Phones

Is your phone unlocked? Mine isn’t. So even if I wanted to get rid of my old phone and buy another one and just use the same number from the same sim card I had, it still won’t work. I used to have issues like this when I was in the Philippines. I always hire someone to unlock it for me so that it will work to whatever sim card I stick in it. Thankfully I found a place online where they sell unlocked cell phones already. So all you have to do is pick the ones that you like, pay for it and you are done. You never have to worry ever again about your cellphone not compatible with any sim card.

Now I Know How It Feels

I have been with pay u since February and they have given me generous opportunities before. Probably the most I had with them was 10 for two of my blogs but never experienced being given extra from the sheriff for all my hard work. Now I know how my friend Recel feels every time she get batches of opps from the sheriff. Makes you feel special isn't? Well I was contented with the amount of opportunities I was getting with them but I sure am a lot thankful for these opportunities from the sheriff. I thought I will never experience the day that I will get some from the sheriff but I did. I try to think as much as possible to make my entries according to the link rather than just sticking them to something that is completely unrelated even if it is freeform. So thanks to payu2blog and more power.

Twilight Book

It’s been a long time since I sat down and read a good book. Not any school related books but books that I find interesting. Ryan and I used to go to our local bookstore to read and have coffee before we had Frankie but it is getting hard with him around. He goes through everything he can find. That is also the reason why I haven’t been reading any good book lately. Well, I find a website where I can get textbooks with up to 50% on best sellers. What I am referring to is getting it through buys.com. It also allows me to compare prices from other merchants and read reviews too from people who have read the book. I can even use my paypal to pay or pay by using Google during checking out. I would love get myself a copy of the Twilight book and you can too by visiting buy.com today.

Deciphering Frankie's Language

It is so amazing listening to our son trying to talk. My parents back home are even pleased with his development and how he can express what he wants to say. There are words that we understand well but there are some who we need to figure out sometimes. Frankie is now 20 months and getting bigger. We are so proud of him and here are the words he can say although still working on the pronounciation:

1. moor (with emphasis on the double o) - more
2. a-bi-der - i'll be there
3. o-bi-der - over there
4. gucky - yucky
5. Sheela - Sheila
6. bok - book
7. boll - ball
8. boo - blue
9. mink - milk
10. Po - Po
11. baba - bye bye
12. Naynay - Nanay
13. nammy - yummy
14. Tayta - Tatay
15. Dada, Dadi - Daddy
16. hay di - hi there
17. apol - apple
18. oside - outside
19. pon - phone
20. shhh - shoes

That is all I can think for now. It also makes Ryan and I laugh when we call him and his answer is "ha", just like the way I do it. He also knows what the meaning of "dili" is. He was talking to Sheila one time and I grabbed the phone he started crying. I told him that I will return it to him after I finish talking to Tita Sheila but he said "dili" (no) over and over again. He must have known that I won't give it back to him. He likes listening to me when I talk to them back home. He also watches my mouth when I talk. Isn't babies amazing?

Want Something Unique?

Cannabis also known as Marijuana had been used for so many purposes. Some people use it for recreational purposes, religious and of course medical. But what if I tell you that you can now purchased high-end quality products featuring the genetic fingerprint of Cannabis Sativa? Yes you surely can by checking out Mary Jane Goods. They are an online retail store that just opened for Cannabis friendly devotees that has exceptional products to offer. So what do they have? Well they have cute t-shirts for men and women as well as other products that you might find very interesting.

What I like about the different products that Mary Jane Goods is they are made of high quality product with unique and authentic designs. Just look at the t-shirt and block art below. Plus they will make a perfect gift for the holiday. If you want uniqueness and authenticity to keep or to give away then you better then them out. This block art will surely be a good addition to any home.

Counting My Blessings

Everyday that I wake up, I thank God for the new life with my family which is indeed already a blessing. But there are things that happened recently that I want to share them. Let me start with Resty.

Resty - as you remember, she took her Civil Engineering board exam and unfortunately she didn't make it. Of about 4,000 plus who took the exam only 1,000 plus made it. I am not posting it here to embarrass her but instead just the opposite, Ryan and I and my family of course, are so proud of her. She studied really hard but she didn't make it and sometimes it happens. We have encouraged her to take the next exam or whenever she is ready but the wonderful thing is she has a fulltime job using what she learned from school. She was interviewed that evening after the board exam and she started working that Monday. She said it is very challenging and I told her that she will get the hang of it. She is trained to replace the head of the Cebu branch to manage the business. I am just happy that the company and the owner had so much confidence in her and that makes me very proud of her. The pay isn't bad ealier for a starter. I told her that there are some people who passed the exam who sometimes have a hardtime looking for a job so consider this one as your blessing.

Manoy Gayfred - After a long wait he is now with the nationals. You see, my eldest brother is a teacher and he was paid locally which sometimes takes 3 months to get. Imagine not getting anything and you have a house and a family to take care. So after all this time he will be compensated nationally and it should be way better. I am so happy for my brother and his family.

Papa - his immigrant visa application was finally approved. You can read more about it in my other blog.

My job - although this is just a part time job but I am thankful that with it I can get the money to send to the Philippines, saved a little for Papa's health insurance and help Ryan pay some bills. When you trust and you believe, He will give it to you and sometimes in the most unexpected way.

My Family - I can't thank Ryan enough for initiating about my parents to come over here. Without him, I don't think I can do it by myself. How lucky can I be? I have a wonderful father in law, mother in law and relatives. I am sure Grandma Neis will be very anxious to know about Papa. Every time we talk she kept asking how his papers been. I will try to call her tomorrow.

My new found friends - Jenny and Sheila are such a blessing indeed. It is when I was about to give up on meeting people when I met Sheila at church. We just hit it off right there. They also brought out the side of me which I never knew I have and that is cooking.

I have so much to be thankful about but those were the ones I want to point out. Everyday that I am alive will always be a blessing.

To Sears We Will Go

Ryan and I purchased a big entertainment center from our friends that were moving to the Philippines. It was so big and so heavy that Dad had to help Ryan moved it from our friend’s house to our house. It is made of oak and it has different compartments. It also has a huge space for a big TV. We decided not to get rid of our small TV yet because we are waiting for a bargain. We did look around after we got the entertainment center but what we saw were just too expensive. We don’t want to pay full price that is why I suggested to Ryan to wait for the holiday season because I am sure there will be good deals and I am right. I saw a very affordable Sylvania class LCD HDTV at Sears for only $199.00. How nice is that? I am hope we can grab one because for this price I know a lot of people won’t miss it.

Another thing that is on sale that I would like to get is the Canon Powershot 8.0-megapixel digital camera. Now that we know that Papa will be coming before Christmas I would like to give him something to replace his old Canon camera that he will be leaving back home. I can’t wait to head to Sears tomorrow because the sale starts from December 7 to December 13.

Bonding With Frankie

All Frankie and I did today was watch movies. We watched his Wiggles together as well as Barney. I surely memorized most of the songs now. We also watched Bob the Building and also Brainey Babies DVDs that he had. Later today we watched the Teletubbies, Boz and the first Noel. I had so many to iron but I made sure to do Ryan's clothes first so that I don't have to worry about tomorrow. I went out today and did some shopping. I wanted to take Frankie with me but it was extremely cold outside. I needed some ingredients for the dinner that we are having at work. You see I wanted to bring some goodies for my co-workers for my birthday but since we had so much food at work because of Thanksgiving, I decided to postpone it. I was expecting to go out and shop today with Ryan but he was tired from working over time this morning so when he came home, I got out and got the things that I needed. I won't be doing all the cooking alone though because Sheila will be coming to help me out around noon. I am hoping to make some eggroll, pansit, empanada and leche flan for dessert. Unfortunately the Filipino store is close today and tomorrow so I couldn't make some springroll. I have to see how this eggrolls will come out tomorrow. I have made some before and Ryan liked it and hopefully it will turn out alright. I better get some sleep.

Chicago Mobile Office Trailers

Have you ever passed by a construction area while driving and see those trailers within the vicinity? I have always wondered what they are for. I know it has a purpose for existing but I didn’t know what for. Well actually now I figured it out. They are called Mobile Office Trailers. It is where a temporary office/space is set up for constructions and sometimes in schools, in a heath care establishments and other places where the need for a temporary space arises.


It is inevitable sometimes that with a growing business an additional office space might be needed and that is why Chicago mobile office trailers is there to help match you with the trailer that you need. You can start browsing at the different trailer models they have at their website. They have 8’ trailers, 10’ trailers, 12’ trailers and even 14’ trailers with functional interior designs and some with multi-sectional complex that you can pick according to the size of you need. What I also liked about them is each trailer model comes with model specifications so you know exactly what comes with it. It can also be available for lease or sale. So what are you waiting for? The next time you need space don’t forget to check out Acton Mobile Industries and expect that you are dealing with a reputable company having in business and continually satisfying their costumer since 1970.

Could This Be Frankie's Little Brother?

I have seen this lately in many blogs when I go drop so just for fun, I wanted to try it myself. The virtual baby looks pretty scary I thought and very light skinned. Well Frankie is also light skinned anyway. The roundness of the face he surely got it from me. The eyes from Ryan and the lashes from Frankie. The bushy eyebrows are definitely from me and the big ears are from Ryan. The nose is in between while the lips looks like Ryans. I surely hope our baby soon will have this many hair but if not we love him/her the same. I had to find a picture that I am not wearing glasses or hair on my face and I found my graduation picture. I can't wait to show this tomorrow to Ryan. ^.^

Fun In New Jersey

Our initial plan last summer was to visit my co-teachers before and friends in New York and New Jersey. We have been there once in the early 2006 on our way to Canada but we didn’t do much because it was winter but later we changed our minds when we thought of uniting Frankie with his great grandparents in Georgia. I would love to visit New York and New Jersey again. In fact, one of our friends has been inviting us for a Christmas get together and party at their house in New Jersey with all of my co-teachers before but we haven’t decided if we will go yet. It is so hard to travel during winter especially with a little baby. If Frankie is only bigger, I would love to go because I know that there are a lot of fun things to do in New Jersey and by visiting Morey’s Pier can say it all. It is a place to simply have fun with the entire family.

How do amusement parks, water parks and more sound to you? Sounds fun isn’t it? Plus you never have to worry about where to say even if you don’t know anybody in New Jersey. By just going to their website you will find hotels & motels in Wildwood so you can put yourself at ease and simply have fun. What is even better is they are running a sale starting from December 1 to January 9 on their seasons passes that would allow you to save 40%. Isn’t that a good enough reason to take your Jersey Shore beach Vacation? Well the next time you are around the area, don’t forget to go see them because they can definitely offer you, your best New Jersey vacation ever.

Hanging Christmas Decorations

I was not able to hang Christmas decorations yesterday because I was extremely busy with Frankie being sick and all. So today I started cleaning out the second bedroom's closet and grabbed some of the Christmas decors we have there. Frankie was a such a good boy and helped mama put together everything then later also messed it up himself. After grabbing everything and putting it in a box we head out in the living room and hallway to start hanging some decors. I gave Frankie the red bell one to hang in the main entrance door.

I was so happy and complimented him for helping mama. He manage to hang it there but not for long. He started getting fascinated with the bells that he banged them against each other as seen below.


Dada however was watching TV and couldn't stand Frankie making so much noise. He has to turn on the volume because the ringing of the bell and the heater on was competing against each other. Later Dada came up to me and gave me the bell. He said Frankie might chew it. I told him that he has stopped chewing on things for a while now and I told him he just can't stand the noise. He smiled. At any rate I am glad that I have captured these pictures of the first time he hanged a Christmas door knob hanger.

We didn't finish it so we will try to do it again tomorrow.

Grant A Wish

I was watching a show on TV last week where they recognized people who have generously donated a large amount to different charities. I thought of myself, it must be nice to have that much money and can easily give some to the needy but I forget that even in my own special way, I can still help. Sears has definitely opened a chance for us ordinary people to grant a wish. We are no genie but in our own way, we have the opportunity to share the littlest that we have by participating in the Sears Heroes at Home Wish Registry.

It is not new to us that Christmas could be very sad to some of our heroes’ families. With their loved ones not with them to celebrate Christmas and the uncertainty of their safety far away it could be heart breaking. That is why I urge you to participate with the Sears Heroes at Home Wish Registry and grant a little girl’s wish or a family’s wish in time for the holiday. You can read their stories and learn on the things that they need most. Your donation to Sears Wish Registry is non tax-deductible, so the family can use it on the things they really need. Don’t you think it is better to give than to receive?

Kitchen Scene

This is the scene that I saw in our kitchen before I left for work. I ate dinner first because I wanted to get to work really early because it was getting bad outside. After I took a shower and got something in the kitchen this is what I saw. Ryan was making spaghetti and some potatoes and at the same time about to bake a cake. I told him to stop for a second so that I can take a picture. So who says men can't multi-task? When I came home from work, the house smells really yummy. So I sat down to check my email and had a little piece of cake because I was starving. Don't wonder anymore why we are gaining weight. We are eating that's why. ^.^