Sunday, October 28, 2007

Although I was not fully recovered from stomach upset, Pearl, Shiela, and I went to Chinese General Hospital to visit my favorite niece, Trixia, when Randy logged out to bed.

Trixia was admitted yesterday after spending a day waiting at the ER, under observation. She has stage II Dengue. They kept monitoring her tempearture, blood platelets count, and BP. The lowest platelet count was 117 and highest BP was 100 / 80. Normal platelet count should be between 150-450.

We stayed there for about 2 hours with Egay's wife, Ana. Ana was happy when she saw her daughter, Trixia, had fun playing Deal or No Deal game on Nintendo DS Lite Pearl brought with her. Pearl went out to buy some food from Chow King and I fed Trixia. Both of her hands have IV needle so she couldn't hold anything.

Time ran so fast though... we had to leave so Trixia can rest.

Saturday, August 18, 2007

I've waited for Randy to go in DP before I accompanied Junjun and Tintin at St. Agnes General Hospital for scheduled follow-up check-up on his mumps.

At the hospital, Junjun recovered from mumps but unfortunately, he has ear infection that caused him sleepness nights lately and sometimes deafness with severe pains. We didn't know whether it was part of mumps thingy and it's unfortunate that it was Saturday afternoon and there is no EENT doctor available. He was prescribed with antibiotic and two kinds of pain killers but advised to have his ears checked on Tuesday or Thursday.

Junjun and Tintin were supposed to drop me at Ate Neth's place but the moment he saw his cousins, they decided to stay with me. They were all waiting for us, it's a nice family get-together, as we're celebrating Papa's 74th birthday in Chinese calendar.

Ate Neth was then cleaning Papa's wound and oh! It was too late for me to cover my eyes! My knees weakened and could hardly believe what I saw. Even when I was visiting him at Quezon City General Hospital, I never had a chance to see his cellulitis... just today! Ate Neth suspected that the white area underneath the skin might be a gauze cloth left when his dead skin was surgically removed to avoid serious infection. Well, sometimes doctors left their instrument inside their patient's body... so, Papa might go to the hospital again and let his surgeon check it.

There was no preparation for Papa's birthday since we're not aware it was his birthday in Chinese. But, we get-together for a simple lunch as a way of thanksgiving and also to drive his bad luck away... well, that is his Chinese relatives believe, anyway.

I could see through Papa's eyes the happiness of seeing us all spending time together for him, peacefully... Papa is insulin dependent now and may God bless him a longer, happy life!

Saturday, January 06, 2007

Happy 50th Birthday to my elder sister, AT, who is currently working in Hong Kong.

I spoke with her over mother's cellphone when Mama called my sister to greet her. Mama had been bugging me so early in the morning why she couldn't send text or get her voice call through. Maybe this is one reason why I woke up so late...

Anyway, speaking of phones, I paid Php 750.00 to Marissa for a new residential telephone line application with Bayantel (PhonePlus, Ref 125126). She dropped by to pickup my payment to Bayantel, who is my current DSL internet provider (since August 2006) and thanks God, I didn't encounter serious internet problems, so far, compared with PLDT myDSL.

PLDT kept ripping me off with a promise of restoration of phone line if I will settle the blah blah amount, only to end up waiting for three months already without phone line. We had lost valued contacts and potential income from online auctions due to incompetent and unreliable PLDT service beginning April 2006 through this blogging moment.

Oh! Randy sent me videoclips and photo images which we had taken on our way to the airport. Here is one copy:

Randy is late again this evening and I guess I would take a nap while waiting for him to come online so we can recite the rosary together via Skype... he went to bed past 2 am and he's still adjusting himself to San Diego time. Besides, he started playing Unification Wars which to my surprise, I can hardly understand how to play.

Tuesday, January 02, 2007

Today is Day 18 of Randy's fourth visit in Manila.

After doing the morning routines, Randy and I went to SM Shopping Mall - North EDSA. He bought tools for household use and to make Junjun's project easier. We got also some stuffs for his kids in San Diego, an adjustable garment rack for me, and some more grocery items.

We're suppposed to eat out and treat Mama to celebrate her 70th birthday but she's suffering from Diarrhea again and couldn't make it so we decided to stay home instead. Randy and I watched couple episodes of HOUSE today while he's assisting Junjun on my son's amplifier project. The kids have high respect for Randy and I'm happy they get along well.

Anyway, the big dinner we're planning for tonight has been cancelled and we'll treat Mama on Randy's next visit instead. Afterall, we had enough from the recent holidays and we ended up having light dinner. Pearl brought home some sandwiches from McDonalds and Jollibee this evening.

To Mama, Happy 70th Birthday! We love you and get well soon...

Tuesday, October 03, 2006

Egay and his family picked us up early this morning. We bought some juices and medicine for Ericson's stomach upset on our way to St. Peter's Funeral Home.

We arrived there at Room F at 8 am this morning. Rev. Fr. Oscar Avelino held the mass. Alex's Room was in order and the kitchen had been cleaned up earlier. When the mass ended, Rev. Fr. Avelino blessed Alex and family members had been all very emotional.

At Forest Park Memorial, my brother's family were all in tears and very emotional. In our hearts, it's hard to accept Alex is gone and this will be the last time we're going to look at her angelic face.

More family members, friends, and relatives on both sides kept coming to pay last respect for Alex.

Alexandra was buried at 10:30 am.

I'd like to thank Randy for his generosity and full support to my family.

Meanwhile, Randy had root implant and was unable to sleep until past 10 this evening Manila time due to severe pain. He's supposed to go to bed at 12 MN San Diego time (3 pm Manila time) but, he reamained awake until I had fallen asleep while chatting with him.

Randy posted also some news from Save the Children. Please check them out!

Thursday, July 13, 2006

Randy and I barely played in the shares market because we're busy in the new BlogShares Chances game. When Blogshares do a DB maintenance, we both watched America's Got Talent and Law and Order using Yahoo webcam. He logged out at 2:30 pm Manila time.

In spite of stormy weather that suspended all classes today, my eldest sister, AT, left this afternoon to Hong Kong.

Couple of times we had power fluctuations and interrrupted cable tv signals due to bad weather so I gave up using my PC. Typhoon Florita claimed 11 lives and caused millions of property damages. Evening news reported that Baguio and La Union are under State of Calamity while Metro Manila is under water.

My son and I took advantage of the bad weather to sing our hearts out but, I was interrupted by a phone call from Abdulelah's best friend, Fahad, around 4:00 o'clock in the afternoon. Nasser tried to give me the contact number of Aboundanji late in the afternoon yesterday, who according to my brother, was then waiting for my call. Aboundaji was the one who introduced his lawyer, Atty. L, to the EX. However, I refused to take down the number. I told my brother I have no business to discuss anything with the friends of the EX. The EX was worried but, I told Fahad there's nothing to worry about the case at all. It's just a mere annulment and not falsification. Besides, I just want to correct my documents with National Statistics Office (NSO). Afterall, it's been 10 years now since I parted with the EX. He has his own love life now and I deserve to move on as well. I warned that neither me nor my lawyer is asking for money and if his lawyer said so, don't give any amount. Twice Fahad called because the line wasn't clear.

Back to typhoon Florita, classes resume tomorrow in Metro Manila, Regions 3 and 4. Regions 1, 2, and CAR remained suspended.

Sunday, July 09, 2006

This year is the most memorable day for all of us! Even though Papa, my brother's wives and sister's husbands failed to join us, it turned out to be a very remarkable one.

We spent most of the day preparing the food while others sang their favorite songs. Two of my sisters brought their grandchildren too. Three of my siblings failed to make it, Bhoie, Egay and Beh, but later in the evening, Bhoie was able to join after his off from work.

As soon as Ate Neth and Mama arrived, we immediately serve the lunch while Randy was watching us. Webcam was on and he's also invited. My family members chatted with him. Kids had been videoke singing and I couldn't hear Randy's voice sometimes.

When Randy went to bed, I invited everyone to join us to hear the 5 o'clock mass. I want to thank God for the blessings and He allowed us to have the reunion in spite of a cloudy gray sky. Smaller kids stayed home with their mothers and off we hurriedly went to Our Lady of Hope Parish. Twenty-four butts fitted in two vehicles.

At Our Lady of Hope, the Church was full but we found some seats in the mezzanine. It's been a very long time ago when we last heard the mass altogether. Two of my brothers and two of my sisters are working abroad and they are all on vacation here in Manila except Beh who is working in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Today is the 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time. The first reading was Ezekiel 2:2-5, the second reading was from 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 and the Gospel was from Mark 6:1-6. I didn't get the name of the priest because we arrived 15 minutes late.

After the mass, we walked from the Parish until to SM North EDSA Annex Bldg. We treated the kids to a bowling so they could have more time bonding while my siblings and I, along with our mother, had a meeting. Nasser almost destroyed the good atmosphere we're enjoying when he raised past issues which should no longer be discussed. I forgot to take photos of our meeting because we had been serious with our discussions. Our parent's welfare was the highlight of our meeting.

Everybody wants to go home because it was past 9 in the evening. After series of poses and instructions with the kids, we finally had one shot to remind us about this unforgettable event.

If ever there will be another time like this again, we might spend it in a resort or rent a private place with swimming pool.

Saturday, May 27, 2006

I found out from Ate Neth that her husband, Boyet, and her son, Jojo, are leaving soon to Saudi Arabia to work for Prince Sultan Ibn Abdullah.

She said the EX helped her get a good employer for them.

Sunday, May 14, 2006

Although I received couple of greetings from my sibling and started the morning by reciting the rosary with Randy, I still had a bad morning.

I found out from Nasser that the EX let him read the document the EX's lawyer will submit on the 27th of July. My temper rises when I found out the respondent's lawyer will also push for annulment on our meeting, the Trial Conference. I'm afraid the case I filed in court will be dismissed in case EX made stupid things like favoring for the nullity of the falsified marriage. If they are not contesting, why they kept responding to court invitations? I yelled at my brother to stop talking about me and the case. I just wish my brother will not sell me on this one...

Anyway, after Randy and I logged out at 3 pm, we got ready for the church. The kids, Mama, Tintin, and I sitted on the fifth row seat. We do not have afternoon mass in the nearby chapel so we went to Our Lady of Hope Parish, near SM North Edsa. Fr. Emmanuel Bollari said the mass. The homily was about God, being the vine, and the faithful as the branches. There were times we have to trim off the bad branches and prune the good ones so it will bear better fruit. I was delighted seeing my children attending mass with me.

After the mass, we had dinner at Pizza Hut. We had fun even though Mama's sandal had broken strap, similar to what happened with mine last week. She got a new pair of sandals before we left the mall.

Anyway, siblings, close friends, and high school mates exchanged Mother's Day greetings with me while Mama got an eCard from Randy. Vera, my best friend, greeted me being the strongest mother in this world!

Sunday, February 05, 2006

Since we moved here in Quezon City in April 2004, I didn't open 4 Balik-Bayan boxes full of clothes and 4 small boxes of files. Whether I was avoiding the memories or just too busy chatting with my soulmate, I finally had the guts to open those boxes and called my siblings to come over.

I held ukay-ukay (for free) at home for a change. Brothers and sisters had fun trying on those dresses. It upsets me that most clothes from my collections didn't fit them. Never I realized that I was taller than them not to mention, I had a very small waistline before. Out of the four boxes of clothes I want to give away, only one was taken. They suggested that I called a TV station and donate my clothes but, when i checked what remain in the box, they didn't take those party dresses!

Anyway, we spent the rest of the afternoon singing and comparing scores. Mother had fun listening to her children.

Sunday, December 25, 2005

Today, we're supposed to meet Ma. Sarah Alea (Save-the-Children) but, her guardian didn't call me to acknowledge the invitation I made on the 13th.

I decided to treat Mama and Papa to a lunch but they had eaten in Ate Neth's house already because it was Jessie's birthday! We ended up eating our lunch there, too! Beh, my youngest sister was with her two sons, Ziad and Samir. They joined us later when we had a city tour and calesa ride from Luneta area until Intramuros. Three calesas convoyed us around Manila area for an hour.

We all had fun.

Saturday, December 24, 2005

I can hardly recall when was the last time I hosted a Christmas Party for my siblings with their children around but, due to smaller apartment space, I only invited Ate Neth, Pacette, Nasser and Ana (wife of my brother Egay). We're supposed to meet at 7 o'clock in the evening but as usual, Ate Neth arrived late. We started the party as soon as she arrived. All of them should be home before 10 p.m.

I had three reasons why the party was held . First, I want to spend the Christmas with them in case it would be my last Christmas in the Philippines. Second, I want them to carry on this practice every year (even without me) and lastly, I introduced my potential soulmate!

The party went well and their specialty dishes won them surprize gifts. Nasser, who cooked breaded chicken won first prize (top grill and griddle); Pacette was second place (rice cooker); and, Ate Neth and Ana won themselves 3rd prize (oven toaster).

While Butch dropped Ate Neth and Nasser home, we went to hear mass at a nearby church. I thanked God for all the blessings...

Sunday, December 18, 2005

My siblings (Ate Neth, Pacette, and Nasser), sister-in-law (Ana), and I had a lunch meeting along with Mama, Helen, Sweetie, and Jenny in Max Restaurant.

We discussed how we're going to celebrate Christmas Eve in the most economical way. And to motivate and inspire them in sharing their specialty dish to participating family members, I will be awarding gift prizes. In case this will be my last Christmas here in the Philippines, I want them to continue this practice, no matter what happens.

To our youngest sister, Beh, who was unable to attend due to her current family crisis, I will try to visit you there in Cavite on the 25th if I find time to do so.

Saturday, November 19, 2005

My brother, Nasser, and his only child, VJ, visited us this afternoon. It was a surprise visit, actually.

Few months ago, he was very ill due to goiter problem. He's so skinny, hard up, and jobless after losing his job in Taiwan. Too many things had happened until EX employed him as Liaison officer in Saudi embassy here in Manila.

Today, Nasser looks very healthy, gained back his normal weight, and most of all, he doesn't have goiter anymore. Many thanks to God, for listening to all our prayers.

Next Saturday, he would like to visit us again, along with his wife and son. He promised me that he will cook something special for lunch.

Tuesday, May 24, 2005

For the past three days, my daughter became busier outside our home. She's pursuing a job which made me feel upset lately because next month, school year 2005-2006 will start and I want her to continue her studies in college taking up Engineering course.

When I told her last month that I can afford to send them to the university for another year, she started thinking about getting a job instead and suggested she will take care of her school expense by herself once she's able to.

This idea made me feel uncomfortable. I made a vow (to God) to send them to school while I can still afford it but now that she changed her mind, I am not sure whether I should be happy my youngest kid is now responsible and thinking of helping with the household expense.

I pray that God may enlighten and guide us well to the right path... my daughter is 21.

Saturday, April 30, 2005

Our family had another reunion without even planning it. I called them late in the evening last night to have lunch with me today. Fortunately, Ate Neth arrived this morning from China as a chance passenger while Fatima is leaving to Hong Kong at 4:00 o'clock this afternoon.

Here's our family photos taken from a cellphone camera:

Mother and sisters

Our children

Sunday, April 17, 2005

After many years of absence due to her employment in Hong Kong, my eldest sister called for a FAMILY REUNION today which we held at home. Due to busy schedule, Ate Neth and Nasser made it later in the afternoon, two hours after Fatima, mother, and Pacette left to visit BEH and family, my youngest sister, who lives in Antipolo.

Fatima slimmed down a lot and got a nice figure better than me. Guess I was the fattest among my sisters these days. We barely discussed many things because my daughter had visitors as well whom accompanied us to the wake of Ariane's father, Eduardo Quinto, at Arlington Funeral Homes.

It's really a busy day for all of us.

Saturday, March 05, 2005

Nasser and I finally meet each other today after he arrived in Manila from Taiwan last month. He brought his son, VJ, with him. They picked up mama and I here at home and we went to buy VJ's graduation needs. Then, we dined at Chow King - SM North Edsa but I had difficulty finding Nasser food that has no iodized salt. I ended up with Greenwich grilled chicken square pizza take out for him and his Muslim wife, Jane.

He said he's feeling better now except that he was shy to go out of his house. Big pimples were growing around his neck and torso when he began taking medication. I advised him that he should never worry about what other people might say about his skin. The most important thing is they are visible instead of growing as cysts inside his body.

When I took this photo, I commented that his eyes looked scary. He said, doctor told him that even after radioactive iodine treatment, his eyes will never go back to normal ever again. I felt sad then but, anyway, his son, VJ, will have an audition tomorrow in Channel 2's Going Bulilit.

Let's offer them some prayers, please...

Tuesday, February 22, 2005

My brother finally had radioactive iodine treatment this afternoon, along with many patients suffering the same toxic goiter.

Details will be posted more later.

Saturday, February 19, 2005

Since my brother arrived from Taiwan this month, they advised me not to see him yet because his condition was very bad. He's too weak to visit us because he cannot go up to the 4th floor where we live as we had no elevator in the building. He looks older, has abnormal heartbeat, got insomnia, hair loss, trembles when he speaks, kept losing weight, and bulging eyes.

  

My sister sent me these photos to show how my brother looks like these days. His iodine scan this Wednesday shows his toxic goiter is 61%. Operation is not advisable but to have radioactive iodine treatment on Tuesday, February 22nd at the University of Sto. Tomas (UST) Hospital. He will have the same treatment after 3 months.

My mother and I will probably visit him on Monday once Tintin will have her day off. Tintin is the wife of my eldest son who is currently working in Saudi Arabia. She comes to visit us every two weeks to accompany me for grocery shopping.

Tuesday, February 15, 2005

Randy put up another Fifteen Trillion BlogShares Dollars (B$ 15T) eBay auction today in my behalf:

• Item number: 5166070585
• Item number: 5166071021
• Item number: 5166071489

Proceeds of the auction will go to hospital expense of my brother, Nasser, who arrived on February 5th, Saturday, along with his employer (who is a Saudi diplomat) from Taiwan. He's working for him for about 4 months now but his health was deteriorating. He was very healthy and passed all general medical examinations when he left the country. As soon as he arrived in Manila, he couldn't walk the next day. We found out that he has reactive toxic hyperthyroid today and if he will not have laser treatment within this month, we might lose my brother. His heartbeat is no longer normal.

Unfortunately, his employer was unkind to shoulder any medical expenses unless he will go back with him to Taiwan. My brother's so skinny and very weak yet, his employer wanted him to continue working for him. He threatened to blacklist him in all countries if he will pursue asking for medical help before he left the country on February 13th...

I wish to save some money to buy a new PC to keep a harmonious environment with the kids but, my brother needs some financial help...

Saturday, February 05, 2005

After 5 days of imprisonment, Kuya Boyet, my brother-in-law and husband of my sister Ate Neth was released this afternoon. The bond was twelve thousand pesos, the money my sister was saving for the payment of their utilities.

My sister is a battered wife. While Kuya Boyet was in prison, their house was so quiet and her children asked their mother not to release their father so soon to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere at home but my sister naturally has a compassionate heart. She fixed all the papers necessary to bail him out.

The crime he committed? Nothing. He's drunk and had been sleeping in their home when all of of a sudden, he went in Kamuning Barangay Hall upon a pickup girl's call who sought assistance from him to get her out from police custody. Kuya Boyet has many connections with the police force but the fact he claimed he's a policeman placed him in jail when he failed to show any proof of identification and badge that he's one.

After Ate Neth released him, she sent me couple of text messages about how she felt when no one among us help her release her husband.

I'm a jobless single parent of three kids. I fully paid the tuition fee of Sweety Pearl this Thursday only and I have to pay for Paul Denise' tuition fee on Monday, too. Do I have to help everyone while I cannot even help myself?

Tuesday, January 18, 2005

Pacette arrived early morning and after an hour of waiting for me to get ready, we disassembled the stereo component and brought the Sansui amplifier to Fil-Audio Service Center in V.V. Soliven Bldg, San Juan. Danny gave me the receipt for my unit and he will let me know what's the problem within this week.

I was supposed to visit Vera in Parañaque City to get something from her but she was with her client looking for property to buy. We're almost on our way back home when I had thought to drop by at SM North Edsa. We bought some stuffs for Papa before visiting him. I have heard from Mama last Sunday that he was unable to visit my older sister who was just close to his area for a month now and that worries me a lot.

My heart melts upong seeing Papa, he walks so slowly and limping. He said rheumatism gave him sleepless nights and he has difficulty going places due to severe knee pains. We had McChicken sandwich and chinese soup for breakfast. We then fixed some of Papa's stuffs which I bought before we leave.

Papa walked with us to get a taxi in Roosevelt Avenue and I suggested I want him to check something which I saw three days ago. We went to a furniture store hoping to get a replacement to his old rocking chair but, the quality was not so good so I promised Papa I will try to find a better one for him.

As I arrived home, I feel a little bit better but, still half-guilty for not visiting my father so often...

Sunday, November 28, 2004

My elder sister and I went for grocery shopping for my father's needs this morning. As we arrived in his house situated in the farthest corner of a 800 SQM compound where I had spent my childhood years until I ran away from home in 1979, my heart melts with his living condition. His house was the most neglected house built inside the compound.

The house needs general cleaning. My father is living alone with 6 dogs, 2 geese, 19 chicken and 6 doves, enough to make him busy everyday feeding his pets. He's 70 years old, sickly, and diabetic.

Among my father's children, I was the only one who didn't liked to step in that compound. Most of our relatives on my father's side are well off and socializing with them had never been my cup of tea. We went to clean his house, anyway. Glad Paul Denise was with me and he helped us a lot, along with Boyet and Nelson. As usual, I argued with my father. I want him to throw away or sell the junk items he's keeping around his house. But, just like before, he firmly refused. He wanted my brothers to have them in case someday, they would want to build their own house. I explained to him no one among us are interested with those stuffs but, my sister stopped me. We know he's unhappy we're moving his things, throwing things we considered garbage but valuable to him.

It was past five in the afternoon when we decided to continue next weekend what we have started and probably look for people who will help us in lifting old furnitures and appliances. My muscles were aching but surprisingly, I feel good. I feel a little bit lighter because I know, in spite of comfortable life I once had, I failed to give my father the attention he deserves. But, the problem was he didn't like to live with any one of us.

Someday, somehow, I will be older, too, like my father. Will my kids remember me?

Monday, November 08, 2004

Ex called by overseas call and he told me that my son received his luggage. He gave the phone to my son and I talked with him. He sounds so happy upon seeing his stepfather. Tomorrow will be Junjun's birthday. We spoke briefly over the phone because it was almost praying time over there (break of fasting). EX, as usual, was generous enough and gave my son some cash for his birthday!

My son will go online on yahoo tomorrow and we might have a webcam conference...

Sunday, November 07, 2004

Tintin informed me through couple of text messages that my eldest son, Junjun, is under pressures from his colleagues at work. They wanted him to "correct" some discrepancies in the company's confidential records which he has access to. He refused to follow orders since he knows their intention was to cheat their employer. The leader of the bad guys was the brother-in-law of his employer. I couldn't do anything to protect him because he's far from me and he doesn't know Tintin told me about his problems at work.

I just wish God will always protect all my children from harm...

Wednesday, November 03, 2004

Paul Denise enrolled himself today for Second Semester taking up BSCS. I have decided to pay his tuition fee on monthly installment basis. Payment schedule in the amount of Php3,070.00 will be on or before the 8th of every month starting in December until March. Sweetie Pearl, on the other hand, will pay twice only, on or before her prelim and midterm exams.

Upon checking Paul Denise' enrolment sheet, he has 9 subjects to study, equivalent to 26.00 units, namely:
CIWETS2 - Civic Welfare Training Service 2 , 3.00 units
COMART2 - Communication Arts 2, 3.00 units
FILITWO - Filipino 2, 3.00 units
OFCPRO2 - Office Productivity Tools 2, 1.00 units
PHILLIT - Philippine Literature, 3.00 units
PHYEDU2 - Physical Education 2, 2.00 units
TRIGONO - Trigonometry, 3.00 units
COMPRO2 - Computer Programming 2, 4.00 units
PHYSIC1 - Physics 1, 4.00 units

Monday, November 01, 2004

Knowing my children will be back to school on Wednesday, November 3rd, I had thought to relax and take them out to a movie. We had our lunch at SM North Edsa Food Court located at the basement. Then, on our way to the Cinema, I saw a cute black Secosana hand bag and I couldn't resist the temptation of buying it while kids were bored watching me.

As we went up to the third floor of the building, I was disappointed that most of the movies now showing are horror suspense. So, we watched White Chicks instead, a crime comedy starring Marlon Wayans, Shawn Wayans, and Anne Dudek. Although the movie's plot was not very clear due to lack of villains' exposure, men disguised as women should bring laughs and surprises. To know more about the movie, the full synopsis of it is here. The movie wasn't bad for those who want to relax, I hate scary movies, anyway. Besides, I deserve a good laugh today.

Saturday, October 30, 2004

Paul Denise arrived this morning from Isabela Province, after spending one week vacation with the family of his girl friend. The first words I heard from him were, "I missed everything in this house."

Smilingly, I was sure he missed my shouting and my cooking, too!

Meanwhile, EX left Manila today to Riyadh, along with my son's luggage.

Speaking of my son who is working in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, we received a text message from Junjun this afternoon. He said he had lost SR100 again and he suspected his Egyptian co-worker stole the money from his pocket. It's the third time he had lost cash money in six months!

This Egyptian guy was also taking his food stocks without permission and never bothers to return them, as if my son is working for his favor. My son cannot complain to his employer because there is a big group of bad people working there under the leadership of his employer's brother-in-law. His employer was losing lots of goods because those people were stealing the company. My son is handling the accounting records of the company and he told me about the big discrepancies with the actual goods available.

Anyway, my son warned me not to tell about this with anyone, so, let us keep this a secret. May God protect him and keep him safe from harm always....

Friday, October 29, 2004

My sister Neth, has high blood due to her kidney problem so I delivered the luggage for my son by myself.

My sister was crying while talking with my mother over the phone. She's ill but her hubby had no mercy stealing her cash, glad she woke up on time and caught him on the act.

Get well soon, Ate Neth. I do hope everything will be fine with you and may God protect you from your unemployed hubby. Please learn to hide your valuables and cash before going to sleep!

Thursday, October 28, 2004

Daughter is finally enrolled in UE-Caloocan today for Second Semester SY 2004-05 and she presented to me a 1.8 total average (First Sem.) in her BS ECE course.

She regrets that she did not meet the 1.6 average requirement to be qualified for scholarship but I am very happy she got excellent grades and I am still thinking what surprise to give her. Any suggestions?

Wednesday, October 27, 2004

This afternoon, Tintin and I bought some sweaters, jackets, and a big black Concorde luggage at SM North Edsa. At home, we packed all Junjun's stuffs, including his CD collections, blanket, comforter, HOPE cigarettes and other requested stuffs. My sister, Neth, will take good care of my son's luggage, to be sent via Saudia Airlines this Friday.

These past few days had been very busy for me and I do not even have time to play on BlogShares like I used to.

Friday, October 22, 2004

Paul Denise run away late this afternoon for a week's vacation in Isabela Province with his friends. I didn't allowed him to go and yet, he proceeded even without my consent. He contacted my daughter where he's supposed to stay there and refused to answer my calls and text messages.

My daughter advised me to let him go, afterall, he's an adult and must have free will sometimes to do what he wants. And I replied, "Yeah? You may do that when you're independent and the cost of your actions are all charge to you."

And then, I left the house to attend a dinner party upon my EX's invitation...

Saturday, October 16, 2004

The children shall have their semestral break beginning next week but my daughter finished all her requirements ahead of schedule and her vacation starts today.

I had mixed emotions. I was very happy that they finished the first semester without any problems. I was too worried Paul Denise will seriously be involved with his GF. Thanks to God and my prayers had been answered. So far, everything runs favorably with us and they're still within my control. Another reason to thank God for is my daughter, Pearl Leal. She really studied hard to get excellent grades and I believe she's going to surprise me one of these days. And, my eldest son, Junjun, got used with his life working in Saudi Arabia.

To see the children achieved something brings joy in this life!

Honestly, what worries me is whether we can afford to pay this time their full tuition and related fees or, should I pay them on a monthly basis? Of course, it is cheaper to pay in cash but, with the current situation in the household budget, there's uncertainty whether we can cope up with the rising cost of commodities, electricity, transportation and food allowances. In fact, the last time I did my shopping, I paid double of what we normally spent. Items were bar-coded and I can't determine if there are price adjustments unless the cashier charged me at the counter the total amount due.

Meanwhile, my daughter held a party today and I had convenient time playing on BlogShares fantasy stock market. But, what life will be like in the next days to come, I am sure it will gonna be harder for me to take full control of this PC - my computer days are numbered while they are on vacation...

Now, what? Should I get a router and have a home networking station? It's not a practical idea, I know, because I need to upgrade DSL from personal to professional plan, and that's additional burden monthly!

Ahhh! Mother never told me there will be days like these...

Sunday, October 10, 2004

No matter what I do with my son, Paul Denise often escapes on a Friday night with his friends (or GF?) out and spent overnight with them (or with her?). I sent him couple of text messages asking him where he is but, I believe, he's too busy to text back.

We had earlier agreement that he can go wherever he wishes provided he will go home first after class dismissal so that I can take care of the laundry on time. He arrived home an hour late last night after I left the house to attend a dinner party upon my EX's invitation.

When I told my EX about the situation, he replied smilingly, "This is life. I know it hurts not to see your son at home all the time, but, admit it, he's big enough to find other interests outside your home."

Then, he held my hands with full of assurance that everything is normal and nothing is wrong with me either.

Sunday, September 26, 2004

Today is my father's 70th Birthday. Happy Birthday, Papa! Sorry if Pacette and Bhoie were not able to make it. Pacette was very ill and she didn't liked us all to get sick from her and Bhoie was on his flight back to Jeddah.

As usual, Papa was stubborn enough not to invite his friends after he found out Bhoie will not cancel his flight to attend Papa's birthday. I know Papa's acting strange these days but, I prefer not to elaborate further why. Enough that we did our best and pushed through with the celebration.

The wife of Junjun, Tintin, was with me along with her two sisters. We arrived late because I ran short of cash and it wasn't easy to look for Allied Bank ATM near us. Pacette caused the delay also when we waited for her until 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon but she didn't showed up. Pacette, please get well soon...

It feels good my father was giving me importance by waiting for me before they started the celebration. Why I said this? Because he cares about his sons more than his daughters!

Guess what? I brought my digital camera but, I forgot to take some photos when I got involved with my sister's visitors about politics issues. We both didn't liked the two women presidents. The interesting conversation lasted for 2 hours.

We need to go home as my daughter sent SMS to buy her urgently ink cartridge for Epson stylus c32sx or HP deskjet 820Cxi. Epson black and colored ink cost me Php1,150.00! Shopping was not in my priority list for this week because I used my budget for my father's birthday celebration but, anyway, I got some grocery items for two weeks consumptions and sent Int'l Roaming eLoad to Junjun! There were many shoppers and strollers at SM North Edsa and looking at those people who bought many things, I couldn't help but asked, how many among them are like us who were forced to sell the property in order to survive....

Sometimes, special occasions brought sad memories and family disputes but, I did my part to control my temper in honor of Papa's birthday. My mother and Ate Neth knew very well the real story and whatever my youngest sister was gossiping against me, may God help her be enlightened.

I love my siblings, yet, I wonder why jealousy in her heart should be a burden to a better relationship. I prayed for them everyday and I wish Beh will remember that she already asked for forgiveness few years back. There's no need to repeat the same mistakes over and over again just to make her believe she's doing better than me.

Beh, please appreciate that I'm your elder sister and in my own special way, I played my part very well and helped our parents according to my means. If you are reading this, please release that hatred in your heart. There is no way you can put me down by telling evil things (you made) about me. You have three daughters and I didn't liked you to pass unto them your sins.

Friday, September 24, 2004

I had a very busy Friday afternoon running here and there, not to mention that Junjun, my son, was also online on Yahoo! messenger. Junjun wants me to send him some blankets and jackets to Riyadh before the change of season. He doesn't have time to go around the city to buy some stuffs.

My brother, Bhoie, and his children visited us this afternoon. He will be leaving to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on Sunday and he brought his children with him to show them where we reside. His sons, Elijah and Ericson, are taller than me now, in fact, even taller than Paul Denise, and they are only less than 15 years old!

It's unfortunate that Bhoie cannot make it on Papa's birthday, which is the same day of his flight, September 26th. Papa was upset two weeks ago that Nasser and Bhoie won't be there on his birthday and he wanted us to cancel his birthday party. Papa is planning to invite some new friends to his party and wish to introduce his sons. He blatantly commented that if his boys won't be there, he didn't like a party celebration anymore. In Chinese family, they only give importance to the boys, and this matter sometimes made me feel bad. Papa cared so much about his boys but, when it comes to his basic needs, we (his daughters), were quick enough to provide help and assistance.

Anyway, good luck Bhoie and have a safe journey. We love you even Papa loves you more than us...

Thursday, September 23, 2004

My son, Paul Denise arrived late this evening once again. He's not drunk this time and my daughter believes he had fun with the company of his girl friend. He brought with him a dozen of chocolate coated Mister Donuts for me and Sweety Pearl, sort of bribery???

This is not the first time I stayed home the whole day alone but what's killing me, I told him I need him immediately after class dismissal because I was bored seeing my bed facing north and my computer table facing east. Since I was serious moving my bed and PC, I did it all by myself late this afternoon. Yes, why not? I was doing that since they were young and I should not expect they will do it for me now that they are grownups. I know things would have been easier for me if my eldest son, Junjun, is with us. Junjun is on his own now working in Saudi Arabia since 5 months ago.

My son, Junjun, wherever you are right now, whatever you are doing, may God keep you safe and well always. We are missing you a lot. Paul Denise is not attending to us just like the way you used to but, the sweets your brother brought home made me realized he cares about us, too, and expresses it in a different manner I least expected.

Somehow, there's so many reasons to thank God for having you all in my life. Now that you're all grownups now... I'm sure you can take good care of yourselves!

Wednesday, September 22, 2004

My sister, Pacette, and her daughter, Mary Grace, arrived at noon today from SSS. They sought legal assistance from Public Attorneys' Office (PAO) in Quezon City Hall against illegal dismissal of her husband by his abusive employer and for failure to give the separation pay.

Mary Grace, my niece, fortunately was accepted as cashier in a known fast food outlet and needs some financial assistance to complete her certification requirements. Pacette's son, Mark, was robbed few days ago of his hard-earned 15 days salary, his work uniform and cellphone were inside his bag when bad guys snatched his belongings while waiting for a bus to go home. After few days, they were calling the mobile's number and begging the 'current owner' of Mark's cellphone to return, at least, his uniform and company ID so that they do not have to pay for lawyer's fee for the execution of Affidavit of Loss. But the holder of his cellphone warned them not to call her 'number' as it does not belong to Mark anymore. Shocked, this kind of news made me feel very, very angry with those unkind people. Cellphone theft should be stopped and something must be done to prosecute these snatchers whose victimizing poor people like my nephew.

I feel sorry for my nephew's fate, really. My sister told me they just borrowed the money for the deposit of her son's uniform only to be robbed off by people who prefer to steal someone else' money instead of working hard and earn a living fairly.

May God bless those who are suffering right now from their losses and return to them what they have lost a thousand fold. Amen.

Wednesday, September 15, 2004

My brother, Bhoie, the oldest among the boys, visited me with his daughter, Alex Andrea. He needed informations from his Encarta CD some facts about Canada but, his PC had technical problems.

They arrived at lunch time, meat wasn't ready so we had Chow King Lauriat instead. It's been many years since I last saw Bhoie when he came to visit us in Parañaque City. He looks matured now and had lost that baby face looks. Ah! We're all getting older while our children are fast growing...

When Sweety Pearl arrived home, she installed the CD, summarize the document file, saved, and printed them while I was busy cooking dinner. The research paper was for his wife, Tess, who is currently attending a Care-Giving class and the paper has to be submitted tomorrow as part of her requirements.

Sunday, August 22, 2004

For the last few days, I had been sleeping late. Not that I was missing somebody at night (don't ever think about it), but, because my Sweety Pearl used to sleep late as well, doing her homework.

I often told the kids that Saturdays and Sundays should be my days-off and they should be the one attending to household chores on weekends. Daughter held a Saturday night party and her friends spent overnight at home. Since we moved here, I never invited my friends over, I am not a party animal though.

Whenever Vera and I had a chance to meet, that's the time when we're both attending Holy Masses and religious festivities. We're responsible mothers and our top priorities are the welfare of our families.

Although we had a smooth weekend, I have some fears and uncertainty about the future. When I prayed this morning, I sought God's help that hopefully the problems with my TV, washing machine and oven are not that serious...

Friday, August 20, 2004

My brother, Bhoie, arrived today from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. He's on a 45 days vacation here.

Wednesday, August 11, 2004

Paul Denise and I claimed today 3 ATM cards and picked up some statements in Allied Bank-BLS. Edith Pacio and Luz gave us excellent service. No wonder I haven't change my bank yet even though we're now almost four months here in Quezon City.

At present, I have 30-70 chance of finding a property to buy. Cost of land here is about PHP 18,000/sqm. The education of the kids is my top priority...

I'm still hopeful something good will come our way. Life goes on...

Sunday, August 08, 2004

Having grownup kids at home is sometimes harder than having smaller kids messing the house with their toys.

As usual, I had trouble with Paul Denise on computer usage. Early this morning, he wanted to play Diablo on win98 OS while I haven't clean up my room yet. I have a mouse problem and cannot let him use it to play games that requires lots of mouse movement and clicking. As expected, he felt bad about it. The only way to pacify him was when I served pancakes for his breakfast. I guess he's real upset because he had eaten four pieces!

At twelve noon, I received a phone call from my father. He said he cooked "kiyampong", a rice cooked with some meat (chinese food), and I must send my son to pick it up. Still feeling bad, my son was hesitant to follow orders from me. I told him my father is asking siopao on his way to him so, he must buy Four Kowloon Dimsum's Jumbo Siopao, two for my father and two for my mother. When he realized he could play computer games at my sister's house, he pretended that he didn't liked to go but, saw him getting ready.

When I had a chance, I talked with Sweety Pearl, my only daughter, to allow Paul Denise to use her computer instead. But, she's tough on not allowing her big brother to use the old PC for playing games. After heated arguments, she uninstalled all her programs, shuts down PC and slammed the door of her room! Ouch! My little sweety is mad and didn't understand me. The new PC in my room was under her name, it belongs to her. But, while I haven't find a cheaper laptop for my personal use, it will remain in my room.

Until to this writing, I didn't know what has happened with the computer. When Paul Denise arrived home, he didn't know what has happened while he's gone. After I prepared their dinner, I stayed in my room and updated my blogs. BlogShares Ideas Market was offline, pending bug fix, the longest ever since I started playing on BlogShares last January (this year).

Anyway, I just wish that my children will somehow understand me. I want them to share the old PC equally for their school projects instead of buying another one for Paul Denise' usage.

This evening, my eldest son, Junjun, called up from Saudi Arabia. He wanted to leave his present job because someone is offering him a better pay which is equivalent to 400% of his current salary. I got hysterical upon knowing his plans. He has signed two years contract with his employer and he might be in trouble if he breaks it without valid reason. I scolded him and talked endlessly until he reminded me that it's an overseas call. He said he will explain everything with me by Friday on Yahoo!

Giving kids what they want is not always effective, just like what my father did. He's probably the most stingiest man I have ever known but, somehow, I should thank him for being one. I managed an independent life since I was 18 and I resolved whatever problems I encountered all by myself. Even if there were times I feel I couldn't find solutions, I turned to God for strength and guidance. And, thanks to God, after couple of years staying home, the kids are now back to school.

There were times I have fears and insecurities, but, as long as God is taking good care of us, nothing is impossible...

Friday, August 06, 2004

My brother, Nasser, who arrived from Dammam, Saudi Arabia, on July 25th visited us this afternoon. We had serious argument over the telphone and text messages few months back (while he was abroad) and I decided not to talk to him since then. My EX found out about our misunderstanding and I have heard that they met in the office on July 29th. Since then, my brother was calling me by phone apologizing for his misbehavior. He said he was just confused that time and he promised not to do it ever again.

I was still busy in my room when he arrived, along with Boyet, my brother-in-law. We had lunch together and he explained to me why he left his job. He said my EX is currently helping him and he might be deployed in Riyadh this time, the city where my eldest son is currently working.

Nasser has one child studying in nursery. He has to leave his family because there's no good job opportunities here in the Philippines. Local jobs are mostly covered by 5 months contract (subject for termination or if lucky, renewable for another 5 months but it means submission of prerequirements again) while if Filipinos will work abroad, they will surely get monthly salary for 2 straight years. It's ironic that we're exporting the best skilled workers abroad and the stupid, crooked ones remain in the country (and some are even employed in government offices).

Sunday, July 25, 2004

My brother, Egay and his family visited us and had lunch with us along with Ate Neth and her children. I was expecting my younger sister, Pacette, to join us but due to bad weather, she decided to stay home.

Ana brought her specialty, Dinuguan and mouth-watering puto (rice-cake). We had Pizza Hut and KFC party early evening after watching I, Robot. My mother was very pleased to see her children enjoying each other's company.

Wish we could do it every weekend. Yet, do you know what we missed? To hear the Sunday mass! Glad, Tintin, the wife of my son, attended the afternoon mass...

Meanwhile, Nasser, my brother who is older than Egay, arrived today from Dammam, Saudi Arabia but, due to our previous misunderstanding, he didn't bother to say hello.

Monday, July 19, 2004

I feel better today and starting to recover from influenza. House was a mess, dirty kettles were piling and flooring needs thorough cleaning.

Just in time, when I was almost done with the chores, my son, Paul Denise, along with his cousin, Jojo, and Jojo's three classmates arrived mid-afternoon. They had pre-lims exam in the morning and Jojo told me that one of his classmates is celebrating his birthday today. Too busy finishing my task in the kitchen, I nodded, and saw them staying in the balcony. I didn't realized they're going to celebrate his classmate's birthday in my house until they bought some beer and chips. What's worse, heavy downpour of rain prompted them to stay indoor, their shoes marked my sparkling floors!

My son is supposed to review for his remaining exam tomorrow and he's here accomodating Jojo's classmates on their drinking spree. Jojo later received a service call and he left his classmates with Paul Denise. When I turned off the loud stereo at six o'clock to watch local news, they moved back to the balcony, had drinking spree until 8 p.m.

My son knew I wasn't happy with what's going on but, I remained silent and waited until my sister arrived from work. I called her up at 9 p.m. and told her to advise her son not to bring his friends here ever again. My son never bring his classmates home because I didn't like unwelcome visitors. Upon hearing my story, she was surprised her son came to my house instead of theirs. Well, since her husband was terminated from an airline company, her children prefers to stay outdoor, than to see their father singing, sleeping and eating...

After the telephone conversation with my sister Neth, I went to talk with Paul Denise but, my daughter told me he's already sleeping. Nodding, I had thought to talk with this boy later...

Monday, June 28, 2004

A phone call awakened me as early as 4:30 o'clock this morning. My eldest son, Junjun, is calling from Saudi Arabia.

Anyway, I wasn't able to go back to sleep after his call. My son is two months now in Saudi Arabia and we could feel the effect of his absence: we sent the other PC for hardware check last Saturday. We have suspicion the frequent crash was caused by memory card. If my son is only around, he can fix the problem instantly...

Friday, June 25, 2004

Thanks God, it's Friday! Glad the weekdays ran smoothly between me and my son, Paul Denise, except for few minor arguments with cellphone load. Guess he's just growing up and he needs some space... (and more budget)!

Later this morning, I talked with my eldest son, Junjun, on Yahoo! Chat. He's waiting until now for the package. He told me that he received a call from that person and will see my son one of these days and deliver the package. I advised him to be patient.

It worries me when we had a brief chat only when he went online again early in the evening because I was busy cooking our dinner. When I went back to check his messages, he's already offline...

Thursday, June 17, 2004

What does a battered wife means? I checked in dictionary.com the meaning of battered:

Batter \Bat"ter\

adj 1: damaged by blows or hard usage; "a battered old car"; "the beaten-up old Ford" [syn: beat-up, beaten-up] 2: damaged especially by hard usage; "his battered old hat" 3: beaten repeatedly with heavy blows; "a battered child"; "the battered woman syndrome" [syn: beaten]

The Battered woman syndrome? I checked again what is this all about and I found useful information at Family Law Advisor® Articles' WHAT IS BATTERED WOMAN'S SYNDROME? written by Lori S. Rubenstein, Attorney - Mediator. The article says, "Battered woman syndrome describes a pattern of psychological and behavioral symptoms found in women living in battering relationships."

There are four general characteristics of the syndrome:

1. The woman believes that the violence was her fault.
2. The woman has an inability to place the responsibility for the violence elsewhere.
3. The woman fears for her life and/or her children's lives.
4. The woman has an irrational belief that the abuser is omnipresent and omniscient.

Source: Family Law Advisor® Articles

The purpose of the above research is because I'd like to know if my sister, Ate Neth, falls under this category...

My mother called early in the morning to inform me that my sister needs help. After telling me what has happened, I called my sister and asked her how are things with her. She was not okay yet that time. She asked me if I receive her text message and by then I remember to turn on my cell phone. Her first message was sent as early as 4:30 in the morning!

First message:

Ngwdraw ak bgo umuwi s bhay kc ng wla ak pera. Pgdting k s bhay paalis sya. N2log n ak. Mga 2am dmting sya. Ngcng ak pra umin0m wla sya s sala. Pgblik k s kwr2 k i saw my bag it was opened wla n yn pera k.

Second message:

Gd am. wla ak pera d2 kinuha ni boyet ang pera wndraw k kgbi pati yn P100 k puro c0ins lng natira s kn wla p P20. Bkt nya ak gnagani2?

Third message:

Wla pamba0n mga anak k, wla dn ak pmsahe, wla kmi pmbili ng almusal. Npkasama nya. Walanghiya sya tlaga! Hayup sya!

My sister, who is working for my EX at present, is the one paying all her family bills, food, education, and other related expenses. She was furious because this is the third time she has lost money in less than a month, which the money was taken from her bag in the privacy of her room. She had lost money also last Sunday, barely a week after the cell phone of her second son, Jessie, was missing inside their house. This morning, her children missed the first two subjects in school because they had no money for transportation. I instructed my mother to give to my sister the intended allowance for my father so that they can move on with their schedules today...

The culprit? Her hubby who is currently jobless and (useless) father to her three lovely kids. He has another woman whom she got pregnant by him. My estranged hubby helped this brother-in-law of mine to work for Saudia Airlines here in Manila and he was given a Ferrari service and a cell phone. I have heard later from my nephews that their father's cell phone was "lost in a tricycle". They suspected the cell phone has been given to the other woman for their communication needs. I found out from my sister two weeks ago that her husband is no longer connected with the airline company.

Last Sunday, June 13, he was throwing his family out of his house. He's drunk and out of control, he went out in the street with his samurai, challenged their neighbors for a fight. Fed up, my sister called me before packing up that they wanted to leave him for good BUT, I told her to complain with authorities first to report the matter of abuses and theft. Unfortunately, her hubby is connected with NBI and also, the District Police Station in their area are all drinking buddies of her husband.

At times like these that both my sister and her children are no longer safe in their dwelling, who and where they should turn to?