tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28371351614743799862024-03-21T22:50:33.815+08:00Whatever WorksTetetmumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00700041801896235913noreply@blogger.comBlogger22125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2837135161474379986.post-8322048382028256192011-09-26T21:19:00.000+08:002011-09-26T21:19:15.080+08:00Admirable Couple<div style="text-align: justify;">There's this small street in Central where they have small stall doing watch repair, key duplication, shoe shining, etc. I've been bringing my watch to this watch stall for battery changes. They charge reasonably. The old Chinese couple can transact in English and they offer discounts if you buy more than one battery. They don't give you crap batteries and told me that one of my batteries "not good" and said "should use this brand." </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqTTLoc8a5glNvaVKaRIPp_pgChDzy60jSpK8G-a64N9G_wNTCy2GZci6qwAj4JppYGaD_P3dmwjOdMTAmQgf2IgPuysWAWhuERgNSkRvJIVy7UkgKrAQiw1ZSna1AE9cJxmW88McHUc-1/s1600/IMG_1257.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqTTLoc8a5glNvaVKaRIPp_pgChDzy60jSpK8G-a64N9G_wNTCy2GZci6qwAj4JppYGaD_P3dmwjOdMTAmQgf2IgPuysWAWhuERgNSkRvJIVy7UkgKrAQiw1ZSna1AE9cJxmW88McHUc-1/s320/IMG_1257.JPG" width="238" /> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;"></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifkjG9sP7_HzT4605Wwa3quVjKmw9KhvdsqI9Gx782tog87oqi79KdqjgVMFuzLUrPo5nAYFTsazzWu4QyRjMjdRGtqgWlEYZJ2Np9wsFKyImV3sHfW5E-ASplNFqaDj2iKppeWdgF9N57/s1600/IMG_1256.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifkjG9sP7_HzT4605Wwa3quVjKmw9KhvdsqI9Gx782tog87oqi79KdqjgVMFuzLUrPo5nAYFTsazzWu4QyRjMjdRGtqgWlEYZJ2Np9wsFKyImV3sHfW5E-ASplNFqaDj2iKppeWdgF9N57/s320/IMG_1256.JPG" width="238" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">This is really just a random post. I just want to say that I love this couple as they remind me of my hard working parents when they were still running their small business. </div>Tetetmumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00700041801896235913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2837135161474379986.post-62641060276271503662011-08-25T16:45:00.000+08:002011-08-25T16:45:50.553+08:00Beauty: Neutrogena Blackhead Eliminating Warming Treatment<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhWEFQR9z-KLvI8qjWeXytn47G3bJpZWvYo2RNVEAIrH8aR3HCCHI6YhY7ggomNHjtTeelI9mgET5U-G5g5ALVFhb_4rCyK36aOUtBjb1tYX0slWA8F2llIyIRd2_nW8NyqSoDNKYLX4u5/s1600/DSC_1491.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhWEFQR9z-KLvI8qjWeXytn47G3bJpZWvYo2RNVEAIrH8aR3HCCHI6YhY7ggomNHjtTeelI9mgET5U-G5g5ALVFhb_4rCyK36aOUtBjb1tYX0slWA8F2llIyIRd2_nW8NyqSoDNKYLX4u5/s400/DSC_1491.JPG" width="285" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The box says: </div><div style="text-align: justify;">"Use the gentle power of warming sensation to help eliminate blackheads for visibly clear and healthy looking skin"</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">"Instantly warms up to open pores. "Blackhead Fighting Complex" then penetrates into pores to promote the removal of dirt, oil, and even stubborn blackheads"</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">"Cedarwood extract and moisturizer help strengthen the skin's natural water and oil balance, and prevent the new blackheads from forming with continuous use"</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I will not claim to be an expert on beauty but I have very sensitive skin and have tried quite a number of products and I must say, this one did not give me anything but softer skin that feels very clean. Start with a clean face, apply and massage onto the skin. It will feel slightly gritty when you apply it but as you continue massaging your face, it will feel even more grainy. At this point, I think it's doing what it's supposed to do. I've only used it twice and so far I'm liking it. </div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">Got this from the pharmacy for only HKD 85 (PHP 460 / USD 11). It comes in a box with 6 5mg tubes. Each tube is good for about 5 uses so that's approximately HKD 2.80 per use (PHP15 / USD 0.35). Not bad if you don't have access to a derma clinic. BUT! I think this works only if you have "normal" skin. "Normal" as opposed to "perfect" and "problematic" skin, not the beauty-speak skin typing. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It's a neat product and I rate it with <span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 16px;">♥</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 16px;">♥</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 16px;">♥</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 16px;">♥. </span></div>Tetetmumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00700041801896235913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2837135161474379986.post-13229007417548971922011-08-13T11:51:00.000+08:002011-08-13T11:51:38.462+08:00Happy Me: Advance Birthday Present<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaJKwcbpTW9mt_srli5TlyHGzTSnVWZLgMF5tKnyQoTgY2hSwDNvP_TDQOcE4NLL9ezbzN2NVknnBUH5upzKqi9_Rxl4fw5-5MBP3mj_C2IltQBpmYf9AAjEtEvQDfxo8xuKtn1lmlDqzx/s1600/DSC_1142.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="153" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaJKwcbpTW9mt_srli5TlyHGzTSnVWZLgMF5tKnyQoTgY2hSwDNvP_TDQOcE4NLL9ezbzN2NVknnBUH5upzKqi9_Rxl4fw5-5MBP3mj_C2IltQBpmYf9AAjEtEvQDfxo8xuKtn1lmlDqzx/s200/DSC_1142.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>I've been searching for a certain bag, something that would work when travelling or just walking around with my toddler. Lately, I've been putting my stuff inside his baby bag. I know. Boo! I want something convenient yet not too mommy-ish. When I found it, I kept going back to the store just to be sure that it was what I wanted. When I told Naddy about it, he bought it and declared it my early birthday present. <br />
<br />
Lucky me! Happy me!Tetetmumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00700041801896235913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2837135161474379986.post-88496156995977936722011-08-12T18:15:00.002+08:002011-08-13T00:31:21.414+08:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi29UlrL1U5KH6cji8mUZ74S4I1z_fiSl7Q_XjzvvH-dk7LSQnH6HWJFZVIFoRL0ffhl-nVsprP3JUxKKbdYYqltrjQ3kYhLZTg2Ot0dqCzABwh9q4kV6FiDGUr_E9ywSPBqPsze_M6o0Pe/s1600/pods+snickers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi29UlrL1U5KH6cji8mUZ74S4I1z_fiSl7Q_XjzvvH-dk7LSQnH6HWJFZVIFoRL0ffhl-nVsprP3JUxKKbdYYqltrjQ3kYhLZTg2Ot0dqCzABwh9q4kV6FiDGUr_E9ywSPBqPsze_M6o0Pe/s320/pods+snickers.jpg" width="204" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUWAHLzYV9WbeRdOT9zX9U2demWnYRal8smBNAJw8dbafCL2uYKV_jJ6vSkG2rpU16S3gJsAYOrbeijsVyVhrRKpjF_aZbHYdz36NGyPBFB_4QyIq0IAAhdVLdw9kh0291lon7khx-10D5/s1600/pods+twix.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUWAHLzYV9WbeRdOT9zX9U2demWnYRal8smBNAJw8dbafCL2uYKV_jJ6vSkG2rpU16S3gJsAYOrbeijsVyVhrRKpjF_aZbHYdz36NGyPBFB_4QyIq0IAAhdVLdw9kh0291lon7khx-10D5/s320/pods+twix.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">It's crunchy baked wafers shaped like a shell, filled with snickers or twix creme and topped with creamy milk chocolate. Yummo!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We first tried Twix and thought it was great. But then we tried Snickers, oh wow! It's so good! You'll end up with mixed emotions-- satisfy yourself and finish the whole pack or eat it little by little so it'll last longer. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Got it in City's Super here in Hong Kong for around HKD 30+. Not really cheap but I can forget the price if it's this good. I even forgot my name! </div>Tetetmumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00700041801896235913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2837135161474379986.post-64711277546571033222011-08-12T17:55:00.008+08:002011-08-12T23:24:33.585+08:00Roller Coaster Ride<div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDi29FVPnwJxTq2yudFWN7I_zcYiD1e2xP2yc9SVrEGZPhbSoKBjWVPh-XTIv3hgbcMYPGOepN55Q-Kv-8g3smANOmjQolMwNJTBgDh2Pm5ooue0cSuMb_pJDU2KNAy-8d17lTuY3MF_N7/s1600/231076_2099014717445_1307711788_32562562_2369478_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDi29FVPnwJxTq2yudFWN7I_zcYiD1e2xP2yc9SVrEGZPhbSoKBjWVPh-XTIv3hgbcMYPGOepN55Q-Kv-8g3smANOmjQolMwNJTBgDh2Pm5ooue0cSuMb_pJDU2KNAy-8d17lTuY3MF_N7/s200/231076_2099014717445_1307711788_32562562_2369478_n.jpg" width="142" /></a></div>My life took an unexpected turn a few months back. Highs and lows in a span of one month. What could be better than finding out you are expecting a baby and what could be worse than losing it? The physical pain and the frustration were nothing compared to the emotional roller coaster. But let me rant about my horrible experience with Hong Kong's medical care for a bit. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">When I started seeing some spotting, I was alarmed. Who wouldn't be? My pregnancy with Rafa was very clean, pain-free and uneventful except for the four-month morning sickness. I consulted an OB-Gyne who charges HKD800 per consultation plus another HKD 800 for the scan. Not to mention that it's 1 hour away by train. I consulted with her three or four times. When the bleeding got heavier, I had to go to the AED (ER) and would be charged HKD100 per visit. I went to the AED three times. I got admitted to the ward of the public hospital and got charged another HKD150. The stay wasn't a pleasant experience as well. The hospital isn't really that bad, it's the bedside manners of the doctors and nurses that's poor. I understand that there's language barrier for one and patient-staff ratio is not really that well balanced. But still, one would expect some compassion for patients especially terrified foreigners. I shudder to think about how one doctor performed the scan and was quickly out of the door before I could open my mouth to ask something. But you just have to get past it and think that he's just another soul trying to survive and finish his work. I forgave him when I saw him still running back and forth the ultrasound room two hours later. I was still bleeding heavily and in a lot of pain. We wouldn't have minded the cost if they just diagnosed me properly. I shuttled between the public system and the private doctor. All telling me that what I was experiencing was normal. I was insisting it was't normal and all I get are patronizing smiles as if telling me that I read too much and they know better than I do. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">A concerned call from my mom prompted me to fly back home and consult with my OB-Gyne. So the decision was made to fly out as soon as I have prepared everything. I was anticipating on a long holiday and I will feel guilty leaving Naddy just like that. We prepared weeks worth of food and made sure all his clothes have been washed and pressed. Two days before we left, I was doubled in pain. I couldn't move, couldn't talk and had to sleep in another room. I didn't want to go back to the AED because I'm sure they wouldn't let me go home. And I didn't want to be stuck there when I'm two days away from seeing my own doctor back home. I did make it. I was able to endure two 2-hour flights and waiting time at the airport with my son and helper. I saw my doctor the following day, and I checked in the hospital that night for surgery the following morning but didn't make it on schedule and was rushed to the theater for emergency surgery. I had ectopic pregnancy and it ruptured. It ruptured just in time. I was home and a doctor I trusted who levels with me performed it. I was safe. The doctors here in Hong Kong misdiagnosed me. Simultaneous abortion/miscarriage? The scans showed a mass outside the uterus. The pathology results showed nothing but blood and endometrial lining. Either I wasn't convincing enough when I told them of the pain or they were just too busy to see the signs. I had all the symptoms yet they missed it. I could have avoided surgery but instead almost had complications. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I'm not sure if I could trust the system here again. But would I still try to get pregnant? Definitely! I have experienced being a mum and I want the joy doubled. I am alive and well, I have fully recovered everything seems to be in the distant past. I have recovered both physically and emotionally. </div>Tetetmumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00700041801896235913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2837135161474379986.post-30226729362153826912010-10-15T01:19:00.003+08:002010-10-15T01:23:10.198+08:005 Languages of Love<div style="text-align: justify;">About 8 to 10 years ago, my friend Susie told me about the 5 languages of love. She said that in order to have a loving and fulfilling relationship with somebody, we need to find out our partner's love language. I no longer recall why we even talked about it but I've kept her wisdom in my heart to this day. Through the years, I've learned that you need to find your own love language too, and guide your partner (if he has not discovered it yet) in finding out how to fulfill you in the love aspect. Knowing it is one thing but practicing it makes all the difference. It doesn't matter how capable you are of loving someone , it's useless unless the receiver understands it as love.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
<a name='more'></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Master it while you're still floating in those precious bubbles of love such that it becomes second nature to you. When things get rocky, you'll have these to help you overcome it. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Here it is, copied from the <a href="http://www.5lovelanguages.com/learn-the-languages/the-five-love-languages/">5 Languages Website</a>:</div><blockquote style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><b>Words of Affirmation</b>. Actions don't always speak louder than words. If this is your love language, unsolicited compliments mean the world to you. Hearing the words, "I love you," are important-- hearing the reasons behind the love sends your spirits skyward. Insults can leave you shattered and are not easily forgotten.</span></blockquote><blockquote style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><b>Quality Time</b>. In the vernacular of Quality Time, nothing says, "I love you," like full, undivided attention. Being there for this type of person is critical, but really being there-- with the TV off, fork and knife down, and all chores and tasks on standby-- makes your significant other feel truly special and loved. Distractions, postponed dates, or the failure to listen can be especially hurtful.</span></blockquote><blockquote style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><b>Receiving Gifts</b>. Don't mistake this love language for materialism; the receiver of gifts thrives on the love, thoughtfulness, and effort behind the gift. If you speak this language, the perfect gift or gesture shows that you are known, you are cared for, and you are prized above whatever was sacrificed to bring the gift to you. A missed birthday, anniversary, or a hasty, thoughtless gift would be disastrous-- so would the absence of everyday gestures.</span></blockquote><blockquote style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><b>Acts of Service</b>. Can vacuuming the floors really be an expression of love? Absolutely! Anything you do to ease the burden of responsibilities weighing on an "Acts of Service" person will speak volumes. The words he or she most want to hear: "Let me do that for you." Laziness, broken commitments, and making more work for them tell speakers of this language their feelings don't matter.</span></blockquote><blockquote style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><b>Physical Touch</b>. This language isn't all about the bedroom. A person whose primary language is Physical Touch is, not surprisingly, very touchy. Hugs, pats on the back, holding hands, and thoughtful touches on the arm, shoulder, or face-- they can all be the ways to show excitement, concern, care and love. Physical presence and accessibility are crucial, while neglect and abuse can be unforgivable and destructive.</span></blockquote><div style="text-align: justify;">There's also an <a href="http://www.5lovelanguages.com/assessments/love/">assessment</a> that you can take that will let you know your communication preference. I tried it and it seemed pretty accurate. My results, from highest to the lowest: Words of Affirmation, Quality Time, Acts of Service, Physical Touch, Receiving Gifts. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Some thoughts about my top three. <i>Words of Affirmation-</i>- I'm not only big on this, but constant communication and staying connected with my partner are equally as important to me. <i>Quality time</i>-- I want family/partner time that is not shared with facebook, youtube or other what-have-yous. <i>Acts of Service</i>-- this is my own strength, I need to rethink if my partner understands this language.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">And my son, oh, he gets all five at full blast. </div>Tetetmumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00700041801896235913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2837135161474379986.post-91247622749167375882010-10-13T19:58:00.001+08:002010-10-13T19:58:50.913+08:00Growing Up So Fast: Singing a Full Song<div style="text-align: justify;">He knows quite a number of songs already but this is the first time he's sang a full song by himself, complete with dancing.</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihH21ujsB7LD83zQVvv0IqYiHBcDcr2RuLajEICcbBb2XEmkXA1Wo269oxBsyPhfLwCPWIzxjev9xdjrn-lm5s42S-AqjYyONifXpsxqV-NF7xIHzdDf_EL28BCMSlfLpWaAXfy1fh7HqO/s1600/DSC_4451.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihH21ujsB7LD83zQVvv0IqYiHBcDcr2RuLajEICcbBb2XEmkXA1Wo269oxBsyPhfLwCPWIzxjev9xdjrn-lm5s42S-AqjYyONifXpsxqV-NF7xIHzdDf_EL28BCMSlfLpWaAXfy1fh7HqO/s320/DSC_4451.JPG" width="292" /></a><br />
Nanawu's version:<br />
Ringa rutie<br />
Pa-kie-fu rutie<br />
Tishu<br />
All Po Da!<br />
<br />
Correct version:<br />
Ring a-ring o'roses<br />
A pocketful of posies<br />
A-tishoo! A-tishoo!<br />
We all fall down<br />
<br />
I just wanted to record this moment that's why the song made it here. A happy manie-moment for me!Tetetmumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00700041801896235913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2837135161474379986.post-86084281019391298642010-10-13T01:28:00.019+08:002010-10-13T01:39:53.202+08:00I Want: Samal Island, Davao City<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh516S6B7GEaNjaeiZ8IPCKpfjFPXZgP7sbmqxRuvyw5f0WIl5bZFFD-_LihbkuQsndv6BBO6FQ69plkFpOmxjTGoSX66lwiM3uLi4eJ0l6FjkVEdNTpYA_AL5yI84nMJRups1mnd1-xAO_/s1600/chemas2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh516S6B7GEaNjaeiZ8IPCKpfjFPXZgP7sbmqxRuvyw5f0WIl5bZFFD-_LihbkuQsndv6BBO6FQ69plkFpOmxjTGoSX66lwiM3uLi4eJ0l6FjkVEdNTpYA_AL5yI84nMJRups1mnd1-xAO_/s640/chemas2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I want to go back. To relax. To see my parents and the rest of my family.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3r8j3tr1gG0veCIbjVtWRTUyGmsmb-rjhwv6TIngG8uMn0n64vxmnNeon2uHzxnXiiupg8DbBMsVhQ6OWXdx08KKAr6pVwRyDNjcnwWm3YOqy7hM6HqPMYHDJBOXXCgFklrfddvgPbiBT/s1600/chemas1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3r8j3tr1gG0veCIbjVtWRTUyGmsmb-rjhwv6TIngG8uMn0n64vxmnNeon2uHzxnXiiupg8DbBMsVhQ6OWXdx08KKAr6pVwRyDNjcnwWm3YOqy7hM6HqPMYHDJBOXXCgFklrfddvgPbiBT/s640/chemas1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Chemas By The Sea</span></span></i></div><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Samal Island, Davao City</span></span></i>Tetetmumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00700041801896235913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2837135161474379986.post-89888356780648062992010-10-12T00:58:00.001+08:002010-10-12T00:59:18.906+08:00Growing Up So Fast: Choosing His Own Movie<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhopWbFa1zjyWPwE8a1eHSup5W5KDJaSSJUzEN_uNwYSIE85r8v9OB-5KBuwSJYwWSi83_Sk04-Qa-GEIFLWoFvNjucGK-W7n0U6bk1xaDuf5V5Q1V0cWOuHlJo3vtNNOJkbqK1MO3c0rdH/s1600/09102010520.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhopWbFa1zjyWPwE8a1eHSup5W5KDJaSSJUzEN_uNwYSIE85r8v9OB-5KBuwSJYwWSi83_Sk04-Qa-GEIFLWoFvNjucGK-W7n0U6bk1xaDuf5V5Q1V0cWOuHlJo3vtNNOJkbqK1MO3c0rdH/s400/09102010520.jpg" width="300" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhopWbFa1zjyWPwE8a1eHSup5W5KDJaSSJUzEN_uNwYSIE85r8v9OB-5KBuwSJYwWSi83_Sk04-Qa-GEIFLWoFvNjucGK-W7n0U6bk1xaDuf5V5Q1V0cWOuHlJo3vtNNOJkbqK1MO3c0rdH/s1600/09102010520.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMo6Se_30tHGlAj-I9A4yVX3fvqNCK6tiskL0t88Qs0qtSOQDrpix4EtBd2IrsXENwBfagnAZnCQyisNhIs1ilaIsoy0fsXG36Dp2A5w0cR_1SGiLsu0IIr_bcy0xH1PTJdFJ20YbgQfz0/s1600/09102010521.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="display: inline !important; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMo6Se_30tHGlAj-I9A4yVX3fvqNCK6tiskL0t88Qs0qtSOQDrpix4EtBd2IrsXENwBfagnAZnCQyisNhIs1ilaIsoy0fsXG36Dp2A5w0cR_1SGiLsu0IIr_bcy0xH1PTJdFJ20YbgQfz0/s400/09102010521.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMo6Se_30tHGlAj-I9A4yVX3fvqNCK6tiskL0t88Qs0qtSOQDrpix4EtBd2IrsXENwBfagnAZnCQyisNhIs1ilaIsoy0fsXG36Dp2A5w0cR_1SGiLsu0IIr_bcy0xH1PTJdFJ20YbgQfz0/s1600/09102010521.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="display: inline !important; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a name='more'></a></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhltLixxejE5lGXFl4bFIIGiPfueHC8hndOdVIdsw9lS9Mp1Mc2EDrhGeZrqBLMqF_cG8zZw7ivP-aXcvw2Ft12fA09HKcXRFL59ADG-9xfVC6VNUQ-7XHfy378BNKJVsize4ci50tmZwWN/s1600/09102010522.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhltLixxejE5lGXFl4bFIIGiPfueHC8hndOdVIdsw9lS9Mp1Mc2EDrhGeZrqBLMqF_cG8zZw7ivP-aXcvw2Ft12fA09HKcXRFL59ADG-9xfVC6VNUQ-7XHfy378BNKJVsize4ci50tmZwWN/s400/09102010522.jpg" width="374" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMo6Se_30tHGlAj-I9A4yVX3fvqNCK6tiskL0t88Qs0qtSOQDrpix4EtBd2IrsXENwBfagnAZnCQyisNhIs1ilaIsoy0fsXG36Dp2A5w0cR_1SGiLsu0IIr_bcy0xH1PTJdFJ20YbgQfz0/s1600/09102010521.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="display: inline !important; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Excuse me for the not-so-clear shots. We were in a video rental shop, Naddy and I were looking for a movie for our movie night. At first Nanawu was looking at the stickers on display and then he went to the kid's corner on his own, as if he knew it was the kid's corner. He flipped some cds, got one, checked the cover, read the summary (or so it seems) at the back and handed it to me, saying "na movie" (watch movie). He's growing up so fast, I'm afraid to blink. He's not the baby he used to be but still calls himself "my baby." He has quite a big imagination too. He sees caterpillars in drops of water, sees ariplanes in odd drawings, sees rainbows in reflections, among others. It's amazing to see his developments every single day! To this day, I'm still in awe of the miracle of creation. </div>Tetetmumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00700041801896235913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2837135161474379986.post-36280580655718266732010-10-11T00:37:00.006+08:002010-10-11T00:40:06.327+08:00Stay Connected<div style="text-align: justify;">Being a parent is a full-time job. It can change you in ways you've never imagined and it can change your relationship with your spouse. But marriage should never be neglected. Your relationship is the foundation of your family. Strong marriage=strong family. Loving marriage=loving family. Fun marriage=fun family. It goes hand-in-hand. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
<a name='more'></a>Most of the time, we're too busy to be daddies and mommies that we forget to wear the hubby or the wife hat. Spend time with each other. It doesn't have to be one full day or two hours aways from the kids. 10 minutes a day can still be as meaningful as you want it to be. When you maintain a healthy relationship, lovingly nurturing it regularly, you feel that you are strongly connected to each other. This allows you to become a better parent, a better person. And no, I don't think spending some quiet time alone with your spouse makes you a bad parent.</div>Tetetmumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00700041801896235913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2837135161474379986.post-65755849554739843992010-10-11T00:34:00.005+08:002010-10-11T01:16:16.908+08:00Kids Don't Lie: Dry Skin<div style="text-align: justify;">Nanawu and I woke up facing each other. We both smiled and then we hugged and then he's all over me. We were so close to each other that I felt like we're fighting for the same air to breathe. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">And then he said:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
<a name='more'></a>"Manie has pa-dow face" (mommy has powder on the face).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">O-oh. My face is starting to get dry again and the little one noticed it. </div>Tetetmumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00700041801896235913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2837135161474379986.post-36253379329980603582010-10-10T21:34:00.006+08:002011-08-04T12:17:20.530+08:00My Waiting Companion<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"></span><br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfJDdCYzStQrU3CGRQ_fChI9CgJ_fui6yooPzFpmWISkN0ddSqbgplXjTYYlEwfr2pyk7tdYbVn61PotRn8u0XUbjE1apaTKdogHkkeN4AKaDTzxaz1B3qV5yALSLcpgyy5nPRmydeGR43/s1600/P1000164.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfJDdCYzStQrU3CGRQ_fChI9CgJ_fui6yooPzFpmWISkN0ddSqbgplXjTYYlEwfr2pyk7tdYbVn61PotRn8u0XUbjE1apaTKdogHkkeN4AKaDTzxaz1B3qV5yALSLcpgyy5nPRmydeGR43/s320/P1000164.JPG" width="320" /></a>I love being with family and friends, but I also love being alone. I can sit for hours on end by myself, absorbed in thoughts or vacuumed into nothingness. But I brought along my trusted companions during Rafa's first day in school. My Kindle which I love, my Lumix to freeze memories and some Life Savers ring candies to exercise my tongue. I am still trying to learn the functions of my digicam but I hope to capture some of the things I would otherwise take for granted-- like the lively water fountain we pass by everyday, the post office, the cable cars. I'm sure years from now, when we're no longer living in the same country, I can look at those pictures and be reminded again that this was where we started our family and this was the place we called home.</span></div>Tetetmumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00700041801896235913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2837135161474379986.post-10845734113551287272010-10-05T11:17:00.000+08:002010-10-05T11:17:14.492+08:00Getting Chilly<div style="text-align: justify;">Are we really out of the heat? It's still early October and I find myself already using the heater when I shower. My "work" table is by the terrace and I can feel the chill. The weather is 25<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 15px;">°</span>C [77<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 15px;">°</span> F] and looks like it's gonna be steady for the rest of the week. I love this weather! </div>Tetetmumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00700041801896235913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2837135161474379986.post-15939439420097465622010-09-28T13:56:00.000+08:002010-09-28T13:56:38.250+08:00"My Baby"<div style="text-align: justify;">Little Nanawu always says "My Baby" if he wants to be hugged. Maybe because I used to say "My Baby" whenever I hug him. And what's more heartwarming than hearing "manie*, manie, manie..." while being hugged by mi bibi? </div><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">*Manie= mommy</span></span></i>Tetetmumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00700041801896235913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2837135161474379986.post-70337970564755990732010-09-27T13:00:00.013+08:002010-09-27T13:37:28.830+08:00Just Wondering: Are All Kids Talkative?<div class="MsoNormal"><span class="apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">As Nanawu is increasing his vocabulary, he's talking non-stop. He's like a commentator, announcing his every move, even his moods. Throughout the day, you'll hear him saying:</span></span></span><span class="apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div><div style="margin: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin: 0in; text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDPJyftqtw8TM20QYrr1oHJj1gtiCrafNLnyOoKNUObyvt14n2cUhY-S51QBcWCDmd7yQ3DU0H6nKssJg6tMHNWQE__f4isusbZTObuL1fGYSmZ72vlsz0UM4_AN5rIR4c_o6u_JofPyLR/s1600/2010+09Sep4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDPJyftqtw8TM20QYrr1oHJj1gtiCrafNLnyOoKNUObyvt14n2cUhY-S51QBcWCDmd7yQ3DU0H6nKssJg6tMHNWQE__f4isusbZTObuL1fGYSmZ72vlsz0UM4_AN5rIR4c_o6u_JofPyLR/s320/2010+09Sep4.jpg" width="228" /></span></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"> "Rafa gu-i atayd" (Rafa going outside), </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div style="margin: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"> "Rafa funny", "Cutie Rafa happy", </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div style="margin: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"> "Cutie Rafa has coodaber (screw driver)", </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div style="margin: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"> "Rafa podaw (fall down) bed", </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div style="margin: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"> "Cutie Rafa agee (angry)", </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div style="margin: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"> "Mo mo (no more) Rafa, Rafa crying, huhuhu", </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div style="margin: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"> "Manie (mommy) kee (kiss) tummy, daddy kee tummy oto (also)",</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div style="margin: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"> "Nao-ku (lao-she [teacher]) sing hu-hu-hu", </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div style="margin: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"> "Manie (mommy) no kini (carry) Rafa, Rafa heavy"</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div style="margin: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"> ... and it goes on and on. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div style="margin: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;">Don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining. It's just that Naddydaddy and I are really not talkative. That's why I was wondering if all kids go through this phase. I don't ever want him to stop being talkative.</span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div>Tetetmumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00700041801896235913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2837135161474379986.post-61403827238963990292010-09-22T22:01:00.000+08:002010-09-22T22:01:56.439+08:00I Want: Pancake Rings<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirwVoqDNhL8aCw_eH8BDJq6NK9k8-pXMstIyspH2FSDHeV1zHd6Aa409vlxsSZE7FTGi-76S4WFd_C7pGySkINl0yz8YUUOmr3T9qDB4cGWdstQ6IcN8IWYXBoFZqbFU2Qp3VfPMHk-5ei/s1600/ring.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirwVoqDNhL8aCw_eH8BDJq6NK9k8-pXMstIyspH2FSDHeV1zHd6Aa409vlxsSZE7FTGi-76S4WFd_C7pGySkINl0yz8YUUOmr3T9qDB4cGWdstQ6IcN8IWYXBoFZqbFU2Qp3VfPMHk-5ei/s320/ring.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #999999;">photo from amazon.com</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">We love pancakes and I want it perfectly round. I've been eating <a href="http://tetetmum.blogspot.com/2010/09/fluffy-pancakes.html">uneven-shaped</a> pancakes since I was a child. Time for a cool change, if only I can find some of these here. Shipping from amazon might cost more than the actual product. :(</div>Tetetmumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00700041801896235913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2837135161474379986.post-82712662308000355782010-09-20T15:15:00.000+08:002010-09-20T15:58:56.094+08:00On Cooking<div style="text-align: justify;">The best part of knowing how to cook is knowing that you'll never go hungry and that you can eat whatever you fancy. Your family gets to eat a variety of food without fear of msg or if they were prepared by clean hands in a clean kitchen. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">There is hope for everyone. A year ago, I can only make few passable meals. Meals that are edible but don't leave you wanting for more. Now that I do it with passion, I make better meals. I have come to love cooking. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The best part of loving it is that you can do it a thousand times over and not get tired of it. Moving plates from the kitchen to the table with a glow of happiness. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I don't know if I will still feel this way about cooking ten years from now but yesterday and today, I loved cooking as much as I love eating. </div>Tetetmumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00700041801896235913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2837135161474379986.post-73948100726568770082010-09-18T17:07:00.000+08:002010-09-19T21:13:20.003+08:00September 18, 2009<div style="text-align: justify;">A year ago today, September 18, we nearly lost our dad. He fell from a chair, had severe head trauma, was in the intensive care unit for 12 days, had his head and chest almost opened, was bedridden for quite a while and was getting his sustenance from a tube inserted through his nose (nasogastric intubation). It was a scary time to be a daughter, a wife, a brother or a sister and I believe it was a scary time to be him too. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It was the fault of the rat, that bloody rat scurrying in the ceiling. In the dead of the night, when sleep's elusive, that sound accompanied him. He didn't like its company and set to end it the following day. When he was sure that trap did its work, he HAD TO remove it. He got a plastic barstool and set it atop a wooden chair. Got my mum to assist him and the next thing she knows, he's on the floor with blood gushing from his head. He was unconscious for a few minutes. They went to the ER, got a CT scan and just like that, he's in the ICU. He is not entirely faultless too. He's almost 70 years old and has weak legs because of gout. He should have known better, especially since this is not his first fall. Thank God he finally learned his lesson this time.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The doctor said there's a 5-day critical period. If he gets out of it alive, then chances of recovery are higher. During those critical days, his behavior changed. A hemorrhage in his brain was causing it. The doctor was ready to do brain surgery but Dr. EO, my sister, asked for 24 more hours of observation. He would need two surgeries in case, and she's afraid that a surgery would do more harm than good. He did get past that 24-hour grace period, and he did get past that 5-day critical period. But that's not to be the end of it. During his confinement, in a regular room, he contracted pneumonia. His pulmonologist already wanted to intubate him but Dr. EO again said not yet. They did round-the-clock suctioning, hiring a 24-hour private nurse to do that. Dr. EO stayed with him as mum was sent home to rest. It worked. He won against pneumonia. We will always thank my sister, Dr. EO, for being brave and for doing all the medical decisions for us. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Then he was sent home. We hired a private nurse to care for him at home and administer his medications. Eventually, he tried sitting up. Then he would demand to be taken outside of the room, then to his little garden. Then he tried small steps with his walker and soon after he was walking slowly without it. Then he was driving again, in less than six months! We can't say he got away unscathed. He has memory lapses and he knows it's because of that. If there's one positive thing that happened to him because of this, it would be that the accident somehow erased some of his pains. He's been suffering from gout and arthritis and his joints are forever acting up. Dr. MO, my brother-in-law, explained that it's possible. We jokingly asked him if we can hit our dad again and which part of the brain to hit, he said it only happens in the movies. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVG4XYk0-Am43I6_LnCV1wsU4nvjnvINbSXcfvcwvLqFdre1RTfORJtHR_1G39jxMH-fvxkdJbiMpuAu-F9_mlHH5576TQEpbpYxJa1o0MZPTQJaQE4kO9yTYc7V1IYXadTkfEDzn_4XWl/s1600/DSC_0484.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVG4XYk0-Am43I6_LnCV1wsU4nvjnvINbSXcfvcwvLqFdre1RTfORJtHR_1G39jxMH-fvxkdJbiMpuAu-F9_mlHH5576TQEpbpYxJa1o0MZPTQJaQE4kO9yTYc7V1IYXadTkfEDzn_4XWl/s320/DSC_0484.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">May 2010. My family, 8 months after my dad's accident. <br />
Eldest sister and hubby not in the pic.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">It only happens in the movies, or to other people... This cliche is so true. Never thought it would happen to us. But it did. And we were not prepared for it. But then again, who would be prepared for it? Everything seemed to have happened in the distant past. Hard to believe it's only been a year since it happened. Looking at my dad now, you wouldn't think he almost left us. Funny how incidents like this make us realize again how much we love our parents. As for me, I know I love my parents more. I know I love my family more. We've never been an expressive family but I know, we all love each other dearly and will always be there for each other. </div>Tetetmumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00700041801896235913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2837135161474379986.post-86738810627538183702010-09-09T21:09:00.000+08:002010-09-19T21:12:56.862+08:00Sept 10 is Teacher's Day in Hong Kong<div style="text-align: center;">Happy Teacher's Day to all teachers. May our children be more empowered because of you.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiri0Ih9UBwB-ATxmG7eK63FxzS6xDSmOzCWtB1v24Yoc-4Z8C_ZZ_AtcmTu0Zs6FV5ZdUURt-uSTZc-jgpEFw1yf8w8b4io2uBLVDAivWd1PtXBWpcPshR4OjlFGE7AvpJG5b-jD_ErNSe/s1600/DSC_3070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="277" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiri0Ih9UBwB-ATxmG7eK63FxzS6xDSmOzCWtB1v24Yoc-4Z8C_ZZ_AtcmTu0Zs6FV5ZdUURt-uSTZc-jgpEFw1yf8w8b4io2uBLVDAivWd1PtXBWpcPshR4OjlFGE7AvpJG5b-jD_ErNSe/s400/DSC_3070.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">These are Rafa's gifts for his Teacher Megha, (former) teacher Michelle </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">and <span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">老师 [lǎo shī]</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC8IYWzQzTezeCcIh585t5Wblz3HdHNtQMReOHdkMXkAaCBjCPM37XoPRLTo8qvdKjcKKsr96iGt1XrVYnvcbt2-CsfU-bV55nFbn5bp5t5Pe69FRqRuPqSGP2zALqZWByk_PFrYQvEYUm/s1600/DSC_3058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC8IYWzQzTezeCcIh585t5Wblz3HdHNtQMReOHdkMXkAaCBjCPM37XoPRLTo8qvdKjcKKsr96iGt1XrVYnvcbt2-CsfU-bV55nFbn5bp5t5Pe69FRqRuPqSGP2zALqZWByk_PFrYQvEYUm/s400/DSC_3058.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Tetetmumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00700041801896235913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2837135161474379986.post-53461038821003755632010-09-09T00:20:00.000+08:002010-09-19T21:12:39.993+08:00Scary Time To Be AwakeRaining hard, continuous thunder and wind whistling in the hallway. I really should be sleeping now, not fighting hunger because of PMS.Tetetmumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00700041801896235913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2837135161474379986.post-30240237633362570092010-09-06T14:32:00.000+08:002010-09-19T21:11:57.578+08:00Nanawu is I Love YouThe bub's name is actually Rafa. I nicknamed him Nanawu in this blog because he's such a sweetie and says I Love You a lot. Na-na-wu is how he says I Love You. One time, saying goodbye to his playgroup leader, he said "bye (Miss) Megha". She was touched and said I love you to Rafa. Rafa said "na-wu Megha". He warms up to people if he feels they care about him, or at least likes him too.<br />
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Na-wu Rafa!Tetetmumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00700041801896235913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2837135161474379986.post-36046674214549680422010-09-01T15:24:00.003+08:002011-08-04T12:19:17.601+08:00First Day Blues<div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX_ytu0gNMeCIhcSmKhGZsqPTaEXUsr4gKBZybP7nGMTH5ZufsY0KG3tp9RrQtpoK-bKFVtMS7NTQsHrPXLb2IZnbhoaufUcbrON7nrmiw3v0l8XzBm4Gc2gERFrmlEK25d75atSs-qBKP/s1600/DSC_2950.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX_ytu0gNMeCIhcSmKhGZsqPTaEXUsr4gKBZybP7nGMTH5ZufsY0KG3tp9RrQtpoK-bKFVtMS7NTQsHrPXLb2IZnbhoaufUcbrON7nrmiw3v0l8XzBm4Gc2gERFrmlEK25d75atSs-qBKP/s320/DSC_2950.JPG" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Today Nanawu starts going to school regularly. We have committed ourselves to this early childhood education thing and we have to stick to it. I will not talk about what made us finally decide to do it just yet. Requires too much thinking and I'm just not in the mood for that. So instead, let me talk about random things that happened today starting with Nanawu choosing what to wear. Or rather rejecting what I chose for him to wear. So we got another shirt, this time Nanawu-approved. First time also for us to go to school not wearing a nappy. He's been wee-wee trained for quite a while now so it's just a matter of mum taking him to the loo every hour for good measure. Ok maybe I overdid it. We went every 30 minutes. He did not complain though, in fact I think he was quite fascinated with the urinal. We arrived early in school while the first class was still in session so we just went to the outdoor play area to pass the time. As what I usually do, I let the little boy play freely and I keep my distance (to prepare him for unaccompanied classes next month). He was okay with it, skip-hopping and doing his twirly walk, and when he reached the end of the pavement, he reached for the hand of one of the daddies lingering outside the rooms and said "play". He was pulling the daddy into the playground and the daddy leaned towards him and pointed to me. He took another look at the daddy and ran towards me smiling. It happened again to another daddy inside the room. I guess that means the little boy is quite ready to have some independence from me. But one thing he needs to learn is sharing and that's one of the major reasons why we decided to give early schooling a go. Oh and we have a new teacher and new classmates. Only the school is the same. His classmates from the summer playgroup all went to the first session. I'll give it a couple more sessions and I'm sure Nanawu will start enjoying it fully again. As for the mum, boy was I tired! Carrying the little one all the way to school and back. We'll-go-home-if-you-don't-walk threats did not work. Sure hope Friday will be better for me. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
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