Monday, August 31, 2009

We're very much active online and yet, not into blogging this month. Sometimes, words are better kept private.

My boys, however, were too busy lately completing their requirements so they can work abroad.

Saturday, June 27, 2009

Ate Neth forwarded to all of us the schedule of our financial support to aide Papa's medication:

3600/month dialyzer
8400/month daily maintenance medicine
2100 monthly blood exam + misc

Schedule of our financial support:

• 6K = Anita June 24, Juy 26, Aug 27
• 4K = Conchita June 28, July 30, Aug 31
• 4K = Lolita July 2, Aug 3, Sept 4
• 4K = Pacita July 6. Aug 7, Sep 8
• 4K = Rosita July 10, Aug 11, Sept 12
• 4K = Jr July 14, Aug 15, Sept 16
• 4K = Nasser July 18, Aug 19, Sept 20
• 4K = Egay July 22, Aug 23, Sept 24

We're just a simple family and some of us will have difficulty saving extra for Papa's medication but Ate Neth has been always there to support Papa's medication.

Papa's dialysis treatment is now down to twice a week, from three times week. He needs this treatment for life. May God help us with our finances so we can extend our father's life.

Sunday, June 21, 2009

Randy and I hurriedly attended the 7 AM Sunday mass at Sto. Cristo Chapel. The homily was about Faith and Fear, in relation with the Father's Day celebration today.

After the mass, we went to McDonalds and had our breakfast. We brought some breakfast for the kids, too.

Pearl and Mama visited us in the afternoon. She brought her WII toy and we had fun with its games.

We served Spanish Rice, Grilled Pork Steak with corn as side dish for dinner. Dinner was good. We barely have space for fruit salad and ice cream. Junjun presented their surprise gift to Randy, a Maong Jacket!

Everyone had a wonderful time... Happy Father's Day to all!

Meanwhile, Bayantel contractors replaced wet DSL cable to improve internet performance.

Saturday, June 13, 2009

Since Ate Neth was hospitalized three days ago, I find time only to visit her today in Chinese General Hospital with Tintin, Mama, and Perlie, the wife of nephew, Jojo.

Mama, Perlie, Ate Neth, and Pacette

Nurse was checking her Oxygen level

Mama, Ate Neth, and me

The hospital staff removed her oxygen, when she's feeling a little bit better. If her situation gets better, she can check out on Sunday.

Saturday, June 06, 2009

I'm 49 years old today.

Mother visited us upon my daughter's request so she could join us in celebrating my birthday.

Mother, Sweetie Pearl, Zhiela and I went to Trinoma Cinema 3 after Randy logged out to bed. We watched Terminator Salvation starring Christian Bale, Sam Worthington, Anton Yelchin, Moon Bloodgood, Bryce Dallas Howard, Common, Jadagrace Berry and Helena Bonham Carter. Watch the trailer here. Movie runs for 1:55 hours.

After the movie, we went straight ahead to Tramway Garden. My best friend, Vera, asked me to try the food there. Junjun, Denise and Tintin followed us there and we had buffet dinner. The food is not as good as what we usually enjoy in Dad's but we had fun. It's my daughter's treat to celebrate my 49th birthday.

Many thanks to my daughter for making us and my mother happy...

Saturday, May 30, 2009

Judy sent me the ultrasound photo of her 4 month old fetus and she's happy to inform us it's a boy!

Her baby will be due in October...

Friday, May 29, 2009

Tintin and I visited Ana this afternoon in Chinese General Hospital.

Whether it's a miracle or not, her uterus was spared from being removed. Contrary to what the QC General Hospital diagnosed on her submitted ultrasound and xray reports that she has Diffuse Adenomyosis and (that) her uterus should be removed, we thanked God that Ana did not confine there upon my advice.

Ana said at least 4 cm Uterine Fibroids (Myoma) has been surgically removed (Myomectomy).

We missed Tricia and Jm who were in a hurry to go home. I called Egay and we talked to him. My brother is currently working in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. He's happy that his wife is doing well and ready to check out from the hospital.

Tuesday, May 26, 2009

My sister-in-law, Ana Liza, has detected with gynecologic disorder since last month but she ignored the advice of her OB-Gyne doctor to undergo series of examinations, until her situation worsened.

She told me that she has Diffuse Adenomyosis, Polycystic Ovary (bilateral) disease and she's been heavily bleeding for ten days now. She is confined in Chinese General Hospital and underwent a surgery this afternoon.

Randy and I are praying for her faster recovery...

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 Metro Manila 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 the building.

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?

Wednesday, June 16, 2004

Reviewing and learning with my kids each time they have homework to do are fun. Her first assignment, she has to write 150 verb in its present tense and 150 verb in its past tense then, use them in a sentence.

She asked me to review her work but, before doing so, I browsed for irregular verbs online for reference. Well, I must admit that during my school days, I excelled in most subjects, especially in Math and Science, but not in English. Honestly, I am shy to teach the kids now because I never step in college but, as a mother, the strength and the will to assist them in every way possible will always be there.

Anyway, after we reviewed her work, she has written the required 300 sentences. It's almost midnight and I told her to go to bed.

While looking at my daughter fixing her things, I suddenly remember my eldest son. Somehow, I feel good and relax because few days from now, he will soon receive his package. We finally gave the package to the person who will deliver it to him , and thanks God, there's nothing wrong with his cellphone...

Tuesday, June 15, 2004

I had slept late last night, hoping and waiting that my son, Paul Denise, would come home before midnight but, he didn't show up!

As early as 5:30 in the morning, the commotion made by my neighbors woke me up. And, I remembered my Paul Denise. I realized he will sacrifice his future just to give in to his tantrums and jealousy against his siblings. He was telling the family of my sister that I was unfair and biased with him but, the problem is, he just wanted to justify his frequent staying at their house. He's enjoying playing computer games there with my nephews WHILE there is no man here in the house to assist me, in case I needed him. Playing PC games is not allowed at home, especially now that they're back to school.

After reciting the rosary which I routinely do everyday at six in the morning, my tears were falling. I can't stop myself from feeling sorry for my son's misleading thoughts. While setting up mobile's international roaming, I called my sister and gave her instructions regarding the package I will send for my eldest son in Saudi Arabia. After couple of calls, I had an opportunity to speak with my mother, too, and I opened my heart to her. Few minutes later, she arrived with my son!

I immediately wiped my tears before opening the door and before she could ask what happen to my voice, I told her right away I was not feeling well, have runny nose and watery eyes since last night while going straight to the kitchen to hide my face and pretended myself busy preparing breakfast. I didn't liked my son to see me crying...

Paul Denise arrived home from school at past one in the afternoon. He watched VCD while washing his uniform. When the phone rings, just then I noticed he's gone. Alarmed, I checked log records on my CP, as usual, he sent P30 worth of pasaload to his number!

KIDS!!!

Monday, June 14, 2004

Millions of college students went to school today, it's Day 1 of their First Semester for Year 2004.

This is a remarkable day for me, my kids are back to school once again! However, my son, Paul Denise, didn't like to continue his studies after I scolded him. He went to my elder sister's house and left me confused, whether to refund his tuition fee tomorrow and send him to work abroad for good.

I gave him a chance until 12 midnight tonight to decide, if he likes to study or not.

Thursday, June 10, 2004

After searching for tri-band (GSM 1900) mobile phone, MP3 playback, MMS/GPRS capable, infrared/bluetooth connectivity, 64 MB MMC/upgradeable BUT, with NO CAMERA, I ended up with Nokia NGage for my son! Its price dropped since it was first launched but nevertheless, I feel better now that I got something for my son. I preferred NOKIA 6820 because of its QWERTY keyboard but, it has a camera! NOKIA 9500 Communicator is best for my son's need but, it has a camera also and will not be available until the third quarter of this year.

We were told from Smart Communications - Sales Dep't. that text messages wouldn't work with international roaming in Saudi Arabia, as MMS and SMS are barred. Anyway, my son has to buy a prepaid SIM card there which cost about SR 150 (PHP2,100.00), if his SMART SIM card fails. I am a Smart subscriber but might switch to Globe soon. Globe has better browsing options and it's FREE through GPRS and can make clear calls via international roaming (post-paid subscribers). My son wants an open line and didn't want me to get subscription plan so I was having difficulty earlier. Currently, prepaid SIM cards cost locally about PHP 150.00 for Globe and PHP 190.00 for Smart Communications, the two leading cell phone companies here in the Philippines.

The next best thing to do is upgrade the applications in his unit and load it with some of his favorite mp3s and images of Tintin. Hey, Junjun, would you allow your little sister to try its game? :D

Tuesday, June 08, 2004

Paul Denise, my youngest son, got a tempting offer, to work in a foreign government, with a salary double than his brother's salary!

The conflicting issue is this: He's now enrolled and ready for the school opening, will he accept the job and leave his studies later? Honestly, this confused me.

Saturday, June 05, 2004

I'm having difficulty dealing with my second son these past few weeks. He became self-centered and didn't like to listen to any of my advices lately. Guess it's part of growing up where kids think they know the life better than me???

I do missed my eldest son. He's the one normally does things for me and now that he's into another stage of his life working in a foreign land to get some experience, carrying out things by myself had not been easier...

Tuesday, June 01, 2004

We chatted this evening with my eldest son and he told us he's doing OK in spite of the fact that his room mate, an Egyptian named Rami, kept on stealing his food and water from his stocks.

How I wish to scold this Egyptian but I advised my son to pray more sincerely to God to make his stay at work more easier and pray that God may let those people around him be supportive instead of his colleagues being against him...

I know its part of his adjustment.

Sunday, May 30, 2004

We chatted with my eldest son early this evening and he was happy to inform us that he already received his first salary! Unfortunately, he was wondering why he did not received the full amount as they agreed upon in the employment contract.

I advised him to report the matter to the office here in Manila thru e-mail so that they can remind his employer to be fair and follow the agreement they signed here in Manila.

My son's sadness caused me to worry but, I never showed him that I was alarmed. He must learn to deal with his problems at work by himself...

Thursday, May 27, 2004

Today, we already completed one month here in Metro Manila. We are temporarily renting one unit at the fourth floor of a 19-door new apartment building. The location is pretty accessible to church, school, 7-11, McDonald's, and SM Shopping Mall.

We're still in the period of adjustment. Since my eldest son is working abroad, it is practical to rent a two bedroom, a not so spacious living and dining room enough to keep my family together , a clean kitchen adjascent to 1 toilet & bath opposite the laundry area, AND a balcony to enjoy the view of the city. Unpacking balik bayan boxes will take time. It's a pain to give away most of my stuffs but, the question is if I still need to keep them or not. My stuffs crowded my room and the only way to have some space is to give them away. I can actually put up an Ukay Ukay business selling clothes I collected during my travelling years but how to do it, I do not know...

When I first visited the building and went upstairs, I was grasping my breathe when we reached the second floor but now, I can go up to the fourth floor with grocery stuffs on both hands with no sweat. Going up and down the stairs with heels is quite easier now than the first two weeks.

I discovered that going to Makati City or SM Megamall is faster by taking MRT (Metro Rail Transit) than the usual taxi service which I often availed in the past. I do not know how many years now MRT was servicing millions of Filipinos but, if not because of my daughter, I wouldn't know where and how to buy ticket for MRT ride.

So far, life is great, in general, although I'm still loveless! Somehow, I am more open to positive changes in our lives now and willing to work, if I find an opportunity to do so, in order to support the kids' college educations...

In God, we trust...

Wednesday, May 19, 2004

Paul Denise made one big leap today when his school credentials were accepted and he's now enrolled in college, taking up Computer Science. Although I prefer that my children take up Business Management or Engineering, I gave them free choices to select the course they believe would benefit them someday with their future jobs...

Tuesday, May 18, 2004

Too early in the morning, about 4:00 a.m., I was awakened by my eldest son's overseas call! He was complaining about the job assigned to him which was not related to the job he has applied for here in Manila and worse, he wanted to go home!

I found out some co-workers and fellow kababayan influenced his way of thinking, and he believes there's injustice with the salary given to him, I explained with him many things:

1. he is working to get experience and not really for high salary
2. he should not listen with anyone who does not speak good about the job or against his employer
3. stay focus and observe perseverance
4. he should talk nicely with his fellow worker who was stealing his food, not to do it again unless in case of starvation
5. he should take some days off the net, and give himself more time to rest or go to the grocery to buy his food
6. and the most important thing of all, many people believe in him and he should not go home a failure

Most of my nephews and nieces were following the footsteps of my children and I advised my son that it's about time to do good, not only for himself and for his future children, but, also to set a good example to the family clan. Being my eldest son of a single parent, his success is not only my fulfillment but will also encourage his cousins to be more serious with their studies, with their life...

Tuesday, May 04, 2004

It's been ten days since the last time I blogged. Life is great with us and many thanks to those who were so concerned about my welfare. Believe me, whatever the stage I am going through is considered one of the best stage in my life since I joined online community...

Due to relocation, I still cannot blog just like before, as we are awaiting approval for my new telephone line application with PLDT. Too many positive things had happened recently and I will tell all my news a bit later, so hang on and keep on checking this blog from time to time for my latest news...

With full of excitement, I logged in on blogshares but, I feel it was not the Blogshares gaming community I left a week ago, there are no stocks available in the Ideas Market, perhaps, Randy or Arvind would like to help explain to me what's going on?

I was too busy with life offline. It was nice to be away from fantasy and face the real world with full of hopes that everything will gonna be all right, for me, and for the kids. If not because of knoxland's yahoo message to me, I wouldn't remember about my mails. Guess my incoming mails are now bouncing back to the sender so I had thought of going online using my sister's computer and dialup connection...

Although I have gained some weight, my aura seems better these days. Please pray for me that I will soon get a telephone line in my new habitat so that I can blog about the latest happenings in my life...

Thank you once again for those who care... may God bless us all!

Saturday, April 24, 2004

We have crossed successfully recent life's difficulties and now embarking to a new phase of our lives. There's a possibility that I might not blog for couple of days but, I shall be back online in case of absence - fully charged and vibrant...

I'd like to thank those friends and fellow bloggers who kept wishing me good luck. God has finally granted our wishes and whatever made us busy these days has something to do with choices... whatever consequences await us, I hope it's for the better.

Please visit this blog from time to time for the latest news about me... please hold on to God, and everything will be fine, believe me!

Saturday, April 17, 2004

Paul Denise and I went to Quezon City this evening to pick up my mother but, she just left to visit her youngest grandson. After couple of women talk with my elder sister, Neth, we decided to go home.

My brother-in-law was still not home, and probably dating out his GF, so my son and Jesse, Ate Neth's youngest son, took a cab to drop us home. When they're back to fetch me, they advised me that there will be P 30.00 additional charge to the meter. I just settled myself comfortably and told the driver I wanted some Kowloon Dimsum siopao, so I got 5 order of Asado Pao and 5 order of Bola-Bola Pao, well... we're not that hungry, really!

When we passed the Ortigas area travelling the long road of Epifanio De Los Santos Avenue (EDSA), something popped up in my thoughts and I asked the taxi driver if he ever had a white lady passenger before. That question made him lost control of the steering wheel and the vehicle swerved to another lane. Puzzled and confused, he looked at me, and stared at my son at the same time. Knowing my son is real, he doubted about me (me, as in white lady)... and so, he started talking about his 3 encounters with the so-called white lady.

The Balete Drive First Experience: He mentioned some streets which I couldn't remember anymore but, anyway, he was alone that time driving along the Balete Drive area but, he was surprised why he kept seeing the same house and travelling the same road over and over again for an hour. Knowing something strange was going on, he recited some prayers and with the sign of the cross, he managed and find his way out...

The Balete Drive Second Experience: He had a female passenger and asked him to take her near Morato Avenue. The trip went smoothly and they were talking about the woman's sad relationship with the man she dearly loved. When they were in the Balete area, he asked his passenger where was the guy but, he received no answers. When he looked at the rear view mirror, by then he realized that his passenger was no longer there.

Well... I must admit, I was already chilling and a bit alarmed, as I was the only one sitting at the back...

The San Mateo Experience: He was driving along the San Mateo area, that time was about two in the morning and he was delighted when there were couple waving at him to stop. As he was driving closer to the passengers, he saw a man wearing red pyjamas, white t-shirt with a scarf on his neck while the lady was wearing a white long gown. Their outfit resembled the Maria Clara days, or the Spanish period. When suddenly, he saw both couples had no heads! He manuevered to the opposite lane to avoid the hi-way ghosts and drove away as fast as he could.

Whether you believe in his stories or not, as far as I am concerned, he was not nice to his passengers by asking them to pay more than what is indicated in the meter. Although I never argued with him about it, I had my own way of returning his "nice service". As we get off the vehicle, I gave him more than what he's asking but no siopao and coke...

It's enough that he was terrified for couple of minutes...

Wednesday, April 14, 2004

These past few days, I was the only one staying at home most of the time. My eldest son was busy attending with Tintin's needs and his friends' PC upgrade and maintenance. Pearl Leal is working from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. while Paul Denise was busy with friends playing basketball and body-building. Silence breaks the moment Paul Denise arrives and plays his favorite CDs, walls and ceilings vibrate from its loud noise (since I'm old, I don't call it music anymore).

Late this afternoon, Vera called me and asked if I have a scanner. Her scanner was out-of-order and she came to my house two hours after the call and handed me 6 pages of documents and hurriedly went home.

Do you believe in miracles? I do, and it just happened today!

Tuesday, April 13, 2004

I received a text message from the office where my eldest son applied for a job abroad. His renewed passport had been released today and his papers will be filed in the embassy tomorrow for visa stamping. My eldest son will probably leave on Wednesday, next week! That's 7 days from now!!!

Knowing my son will leave me for employment abroad breaks my heart. I do not know what kind of life awaits him there and what kind of people he will be dealing with. He will be away from us for the first time and there is no way I can protect him if ever he needs me around. I know my son needs to live a life away from my umbrella of protection, as what my mother often told me lately. I know I must give him some space to have his own life away from me...

Days passed by so quickly, in the next few weeks, we shall be having a new environment, new people to get acquainted with, and hopefully a better life...

So, help us, God!

Sunday, April 11, 2004

The kids and I spent the Easter Holiday with my parents, elder sister Ate Neth and her family. My younger sister, Pacette, together with her sons, arrived later in the afternoon...

For the first time, I cooked lunch for all of us since Ate Neth went to the grocery. It was a nice feeling to have a get-together like this. But, I was bad enough when I sneaked some time to buy/sell some BlogShares ideas after preparing everything for dinner. All of them are watching Passion of Christ while I was busy checking those industries' prices. Since daughter has a copy of the movie, I was not in a hurry to watch it, afterall, we could still watch it at home.

My brother-in-law dropped us home late in the evening. Somehow, I feel guilty. We forgot to attend Sunday Mass!

Sunday, April 04, 2004

Those tremendous pressures I had lately pushed me to visit my parents. I missed them a lot these past few days and I finally decided this morning to go to Quezon City and had my lunch with them. It's kind of boring here at home since my daughter wasn't here because she went out swimming with her friends.

Upon seeing my father, he looked older than the last time I saw him, and, it breaks my heart when he had lost so much weight. He got serious burns two weeks ago when he had an accident while cooking and it was a miracle burns healed faster than expected considering he's diabetic. My mother had more white hair this time but, she remained faithful attending Sunday mass. It's Palm Sunday today and she left early with her best friend.

I had the opportunity to have a longer talk with my elder sister, Ate Neth, and she mentioned that Leila, the secretary of my EX who is still in HK, will stay for another 8 months there under maximum security, as punishment for Human Trafficking. What's worst, Leila's siblings here in the Philippines would like to sell some of her properties to cover and support their personal expenses, instead of visiting her in HK. Although we believe that what has happened with Leila had been so unfair, we cannot questioned the wisdom of God. It was Leila, herself, who insisted to visit Hong Kong, and she left Manila last month, along with my sister and fellow agents.

Somehow, we really do not know what is in store for us, but, if ever something bad shall happen to me, I just wish God will allow me first to finish all my duties and obligations with my children and family!

Anyway, many thanks to Jojo, the elder son of my sister, for repairing my TV's remote control. I wish all of you can read my blog everyday, after setting the newly installed Mozilla browser on your PC, with my blog's site as your default home page. I'd thought at first that the new PC of my sister was slow, because each time I wanted to open any site using IExplorer, it took me 5-10 minutes before the page is fully downloaded. But, when I downloaded and installed Mozilla, presto! Browsing is faster, to the extent that I enjoyed buying some Ideas at BlogShares.

My sister stopped my enjoyment when she reminded that we must leave to do some shopping. But, the moment we're in SM North shopping mall, I changed my mind and excused myself to go home, guess what? I missed my children...

Wednesday, March 31, 2004

Mr. Sy wanted me to decide today whether I can lift the Adverse Claim or not. Deciding on lifting it affects not only future's decision-making but, emotions and pride are factors that must set aside. for the sake of my children...

Unintentionally, I shouted at Vera and Mr. Sy over my telephone conversations with them. I was nervous about our situation.

A new buyer, Mrs. Macapagal, came twice to visit the house. On her second visit, three men in ADB uniforms came along with her and made assessment of my house.

Friday, March 26, 2004

In the morning, Paul Denise, Pearl, Arianne, and I were ready to donate blood! But, Pearl has to have her X-Ray at 8 in the morning as part of her college entrance pre-requirements. Later in the afternoon, she has a seminar at the university, which conflicts with our schedules but, I told her to follow if she has time...

Paul Denise and I arrived at PCH at 9:30 a.m. Immediately as we get off from the vehicle, I saw Junjun yelling at the guy in the Information Desk, they did not allowed my son to go upstairs! By then, I have noticed that there were so many people both inside and outside the hospital premises, mostly in uniforms. When I inquired what's going on, I was advised that all visitors and watchers were not allowed in the building unless it's the scheduled visiting hours, which is from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon and from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Surprised why they became strict on the third day of my visit, they said there was an on-going Fire Drill Exercise in the hospital and strictly no one is allowed to stay inside the rooms except patients. So we waited patiently near the Lab room.

At 10 a.m., we hurriedly signed in the log book, went upstairs and had little talk with the personnel at the Nurse Station. I tried to discuss about the endorsement or referral letter to PCSO to help my son pay half of the bills but I was told processing would take us about ten days, the least.

While thinking what to do, we then proceeded to PCH lab for blood donation, they normally close at 3 p.m., one hour early every Friday. As my turn came, I was given a sheet of paper, asked to go to ER window 10 but, ER was temporarily transferred at the other side of the building due to Fire Drill Exercise.

At ER, there were so many patients in queue but I talked with the nurse that we're not patients and she must get our BP and weight immediately so that we can go to the other hospital for blood screening and donation. I weighed about 68 kg. and had a BP of 100/80 while Paul Denise weight was only 60 kg. and had a BP of 110/80! After she noted our weight and BP, I went upstairs to tell them we're leaving but I met my son going downstairs in tears. Alarmed, I found out later that his wife might stay for another ten days because the hospital personnel will take time to issue Medical Abstract since the attending surgeon, Dr. Virata, was not around yet and there's no clinical abstract issuance every Saturday and Sunday! I smiled at him, patted his head, and assured him that I will do my best to get Tintin out the same day and he should keep calm and take everything easy.

At Las Piñas District Hospital, I paid P2,000 for blood screening and went to Blood Bank, located in the next building. Mohammed Khayer M. Safar, the one who screened us, asked series of questions. Disgusted, he disqualified me to donate my blood because I will soon have my monthly period while Paul Denise passed as a blood donor (blood type O)! Mohammed says women who have menstrual period 7 days before or after, are not qualified to donate blood. Just the same, I insisted that he screened my blood, dropped it in a blue solution, and it went straight at the bottom - I passed! But still, I'm not qualified to donate due to my forthcoming period!

Screening is done, it was about 11:45 in the morning. Mohammed told my son to eat first before blood letting and advised us to come back at 1 p.m., after lunch break. My daughter contacted me then but I told her to wait for us at home and no need to follow us, she is not qualified also to donate blood, her period is due next week.

Since I was disqualified to donate blood, we need another blood donor as my replacement. Knowing there is another blood donor with Junjun, Paul Denise contacted his big brother and told him to follow us at Las Piñas District Hospital with his donor. Few minutes later, Junjun and his donor arrived, I asked them to rest while we're in SM Sucat, had our lunch, changed some money and bought a loose dress for Tintin.

At SM Sucat, I had difficulty changing the money. I changed them in two places, at Hyper Supermarket and at Banco De Oro but, they rejected some bills. When they asked for my identification, I even forgot to bring my passport! Who in this world would remember to bring a passport if we want to discharge a patient from the hospital? Anyway, the guy at Banco De Oro offered his ID in order to change the dollars. What identifications I had with me were expired Driver's License and Tax Identification ID which they didn't honored.

Finally, as they finished blood letting and we received Blood Bank Certification, we went straight back to PCH in La Huerta. I submitted the certification at the Lab, they issued a Clearance which was signed by a Social Worker. It's what we need before a Statement of Account be released to us. When we're done paying all the surgical expense of Tintin, we went home relieved.

I feel good that my children are complete again...

Thursday, March 25, 2004

As my eldest son, Junjun, arrived early in the morning, Paul Denise left the house to watch Tintin in the hospital while Junjun and I were busy attending to our appointments. Junjun needed some sleep prior to his afternoon appointment with the employer but we were disturbed when Paul Denise texted to us that Tintin was moved to OB ward and patient's watcher is not allowed inside the ward...

Meanwhile, there was little misunderstanding between the office and on our sides, they never told us that the employer who was about to interview my son was a new one. Furious with the conflict of schedules, I demanded that Junjun pickup something in my behalf and that's where the trouble started.

The other agent who happened to have two applicants with her wanted my son lost his way while the said employer was interviewing the two technician applicants with her. Obviously, money was the reason of her motives here because should my son be selected by the employer, she wouldn't have commission from him!

Fortunately, my son found them and discovered the "secret deal" between the agent and the two applicants. Junjun felt bad with the tricky treatment he received from the agent but I told him there were more important things to think about other than those cheaters. Besides, I didn't liked the way the employer had questioned my son, I considered the employer a newbie when it comes to interviewing people. However, that "little game" of hide-and-seek had taken so much of my son's time.

Junjun arrived home exhausted, had a low bat cellphone and zero load! Upon knowing about the incidence, I telephoned immediately the office and questioned blatantly the agent who maltreated my son. After serving Junjun his lunch, we immediately left to get there to the hospital on time based on allowed visitation schedule. I was worried Paul Denise didn't have a chance to eat his meals while waiting at the hospital lobby, should Tintin needed him to buy her some medicines or food.

I had the opportunity to have few words with the PCH lab people and Social Worker. They explained to me the consequences should we avail of PCSO medical assistance or seek Mayor's Funds' 30% discount off from the hospital's total bill.

Since watcher is no longer allowed to stay inside the room, my boys and I went home to have a longer sleep. We decided to donate blood ourselves so that we could bring home Tintin after replacing the blood transfused in her during CS.

Paola's mother and hubby came to visit the house along with Vera, Zeny and her husband. The purpose of the visit was to study the renovation cost of my house should Paola's family bought my property. Zeny is a part time broker and her husband is on a Build-and-Sell business and they accept renovation contracts, as well.

John, Paola's hubby, confirmed his interest to purchase my property and this time, they will pay in cash, as bank loan will cost them so much paying its monthly interests.

Later in the afternoon, while waiting for Junjun to come home, Zeny and her hubby brought two guys with them to estimate well the cost of renovating my house. John himself had a Build-and-Sell business earlier before he works for the government and he finds the quotation of the couple a little bit cheaper than his estimated budget of 1 million for renovation...

Vera informed me that she heard from another fellow broker that Mr. Sy is looking for another house and the said broker was asking Vera's recommendation of available properties for sale. With that information, we decided not to follow instructions from Mr. Sy anymore and let the flow of events tell us who is really among the three buyers are serious in buying our property...

Wednesday, March 24, 2004

My son and I had heated arguments over some issues on how to resolve their current hospitalization expense. We both raised our voices and firmed with our stands, he went to his room and I slammed my room's door!

I concentrated well on his accusations and, knowing he didn't mean what he said, I sent Paul Denise, my second son, to buy ice cream in a nearby grocery store, Tropical Hut Food Mart. The warm weather and lack of sleep probably had something to do with our temper to rise quickly so we need to cool down. I pampered myself with the delicious flavor of 900 ml. Selecta Creations' Double Dutch and Super Chocolate (Take Two) ice cream which cost about P 99.00 only. Junjun accepted his share when Paul Denise announced that he bought the ice cream! That's how I resolved dispute with my son...

After couple of hours sleep, I knocked at Junjun's room, gave him instructions and I decided to visit Tintin for the first time in Parañaque Community Hospital (PCH) in La Huerta. My children didn't want me to appear there earlier because the hospital authorities might not give my son Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) endorsement upon seeing me. But, bored with the way my son handles the situation, we went there so that I can check personally what's going on with Tintin and the hospital billings.

Since it was a charity hospital, three patients are sharing a small room of about 16 SQM floor area, if I am not mistaken with the size. We arrived late in the hospital prior to scheduled visitation at night from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Nevertheless, since it was my first visit, they let me in. After few words with Tintin, I talked with the Nurse stationed at the Information Desk in the second floor of PCH building. Cashier was closed then and I couldn't check with them the current statement of account on surgical expense of Tintin.

Junjun stayed with Tintin in the hospital but I reminded him of his Thursday schedules. Paul Denise was with me then and we went home straight from the hospital.

When I arrived home, I contemplated on my son's accusations. The pains of being a single parent was there but, I must be brave enough to accept whatever my son's thoughts about my shortcomings. I know, someday, he will understand how hard it is to raise them by myself and keeping the family intact in spite of family difficulties...

Wish I had more money to provide them all what they need. Fortunately enough, glad God answered my prayers and I received some budget from my EX (Kids' stepfather)!

I called Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) at telephone number 7819701 and made an inquiry on how we could avail of medical assistance from this government office.

They advised me to coordinate with the Social Worker based in PCH and secure endorsement from them, original statement of account, and seek certified medical abstract from attending physician, along with the physician's license number.

Tuesday, March 23, 2004

Tintin needs more blood transfusion but, my son couldn't get one 450 cc of Type B Blood unless he finds a blood donor. For each blood pack used, my son should bring two blood donors. In short, PCH lab requires that six blood donors should be able to donate blood so that my son could get one more blood pack for Tintin OR pay P 2,000.00 representing screening fee + four blood donors! It's unfortunate none of us are qualified to donate blood due to sleepless nights over Tintin's hospitalization.

Lost where to get more money, I prayed to God for some help...

Sunday, March 21, 2004

Unlike other ordinary miscarriage, Tintin underwent a caesarian (CS) operation and had blood transfusion, used two (2) 450 cc pack of Type B blood. She was confined at Parañaque Community Hospital (PCH) in La Huerta. Through the kind assistance of Social Workers there, Tintin had urgent CS at 11:30 p.m. last night. The fetus was about 35 days old...

I was under shock, I couldn't believe this is happening... never in my thoughts my first unborn grandchild will die long before the baby will be born.

Because of this, I didn't feel well having a legal meeting with Atty. Acosta today to discuss about RRE's REPLY to my counter-affidavit. We reset the meeting tomorrow.

Saturday, March 20, 2004

The common-law wife of my eldest son, Tintin, had a miscarriage since three days ago but, we didn't know about it. No one knows. She started complaining of abdominal pains and she was bleeding. She had mistaken it as her monthly period.

Yesterday, they went to the hospital late in the evening and I didn't know what time they went back. They bought all the prescribed medicines, she was diagnosed with symptons of kidney stone and she was advised not to eat salty foods and drink more water than she normally does...

But, her situation did not improve and she was brought back to the hospital. They later found out she had ectopic pregnancy and she needs urgent operation this evening. While writing this blog, my eldest son arrived to get some more money. Tintin needs immediately blood transfusion for her operation.

I was weakened and saddened that my first unborn grandchild is dead :-(

Recommended for Reading: Tyce Stewart's Birth Story

Mr. Sy called this morning and made a follow-up on what has happened with the Adverse Claim.

He gave me some enlightenment about the practicality of life and advised me to set aside my "pride" for the sake of my children's future. He said someday, somehow, karma will work for all of us. If I remained good, I would get good karma and if others were bad to us, they will get bad karma...

I told him to give me until Thursday, I will try to see how the case are moving. With my fingers crossed, I am hopeful things will run favorably on my side. Maybe on Monday, there's good news about the claim, who knows?

Later this afternoon, a broker through Virgie's referral came here and brought Richard who owned a property in Manhattan. I didn't liked them to enter the house and after series of inquiries, I let them in.

I made sure the broker didn't referred by RRE, otherwise, I woould not let them in. Should Richard decided to buy the house based on my asking price, he said he needs the documents for bank loan purposes.

My stand remains, I need time until next week to decide whether to pursue the case or not. I feel the scheduled hearing on Thursday will be the last meeting. Hopefully, the case will be dismissed in my favor.

Meanwhile, Paola, the flight attendant, will be visiting us on Monday for another meeting. And probably later in the evening, Mr. Sy told me that he will drop by to bring us Chinese food :">

Wednesday, March 17, 2004

Mr. Sy extended until next week the time he has given me to lift Adverse Claim against TCT. I was earlier given until today but, after I told him that I would stand firm not to make any amicable settlement at the expense of my broker / best friend, he gave me due considerations and enough time. The reason why he's in a hurry is because of his forthcoming trip to the USA to visit his family.

I have full faith and confidence that God would not let me suffer for long. Many people showed support and I really appreciated their generosity and kindness. I might have favorable news by Thursday afternoon, if things will come my way...

Monday, March 15, 2004

Mr. Sy, the potential buyer of my property, dropped by this evening and was thoughtful enough, brought us some Chinese food. Surprised with the three plastic bags of food when he handed them to me, he immediately commented that the food has nothing to do with the on-going deal we have, as far as my property is concerned.

Well, this is probably the result of good karma :-)

Sunday, March 14, 2004

Mr. Sy told me over the phone early this morning not to accept anymore house inquiry because he decided to take the house. However, he wanted me to lift the Adverse Claim inscripted by RRE against my TCT before giving earnest money.

Later in the afternoon, Vera received a long distance call from the husband of Paola, a flight stewardess, and told her to hold the house until their next visit. Paola is currently in the USA due to the nature of her work and will be back next week.

Upon telling Vera about Mr. Sy's phone call, we agreed to keep the sale of the house open until one of the buyers will pay the earnest money. This time, we're very cautious not to be victimized again by trusting too much...

Saturday, March 13, 2004

Mr. Sy, together with his Architect, arrived home this morning. He was supposed to visit by Sunday, but, nevertheless, he showed keen interest in buying my property and would like to know how much it will cost him in case of renovation...

My best friend told me that Mr. Sy was bothering her for a more lower price but I insisted on following my asking price and will not go lower than that. Although he showed so much interest, my concern is who will pay me good price for our property.

Saturday, March 06, 2004

Tootsie, or Bimbo (as my daughter called her pet), was a 5 month old cute male puppy. He passed away on Wednesday, March 3rd, at 10 o'clock in the morning due to unknown illness. Vet tentatively diagnosed him with a gastrointestinal foreign body obstruction due to unusual vomiting and loss of appetite to eat. Whatever he had ingested in his body was so serious as his death was inevitable on his third day of suffering, which shocked us all.

Tootsie was limping and had couple of wounds caused by his mother's bites when he brought to us in December 2003. He survived an eye infection in January this year and had grown up so fast and smarter. He was a loving, friendly and playful pet. He even got some friends at Friendster, mostly friends of my daughter who had seen him at home. He's not just a plain puppy to us, he's everybody's buddy! Kuting, my female cat, and Tootsie get along well with each other, except when it comes to food. Obviously, Kuting gave way most of the time.

What's so special about Tootsie? He gave me companionship from morning 'til I went to sleep. He covered the gap between me and my children, who were busy with their own young adult stuffs. Whenever I was infront of the computer, he would sleep and rested his head on my feet or if I watched TV, he would put his head on my lap. Every meal, I shared half of my food with Tootsie and Kuting. If I was doing our laundry or if I was busy cooking or washing dishes, he patiently watched me. Twice or three times a day, we played running around the house, I never realized that those little things Tootsie did for us made him very close in our hearts.

How can I forget those tears in Tootsie's eyes before his last breathe? He acted abnormally and secluded himself away from us when he started vomiting and later, uncontrollable bowel with blood. We feel he didn't liked to bother us in cleaning him up in his messy condition. Each time I was busy buying/selling stocks with BlogShares, he was gone and stayed in the garden or at the back of the house, in places he never frequent before. I was not sure if that was a normal reaction of a sick dog but, the fact that we cannot afford to confine him for treatment made me feel guilty. His medication and home treatment didn't helped him to survive.

Tootsie brought us joy and, it was really sad he stayed with us for a very short period of time. When my daughter told me yesterday that she would bring another puppy in a month or so, I told her I don't think I would be happy to have another puppy after Tootsie's death.

That day Tootsie died, Kuting delivered three kittens but he would not be there when these kittens grow up...

If you have a dog or a cat at home, do not wait 'til something bad happen to them, know what's good and what's harmful to your pets at Pet Place.

Wednesday, March 03, 2004

For three days, we're trying very hard to save the life of Tootsie, a 5-month old doggie we loved so much and been with us for more than three months. I was very much affected because I treated Tootsie like my youngest "baby" and I couldn't believe that he's gone now...

My daughter said not to worry and she will bring home another puppy but, it's heart-breaking that Tootsie should go due to an illness. I prefer to give him away than to lose him like this :-(

Monday, February 02, 2004

Worried that I might not be able to send my children to college next school year (by June) made me more depressed lately.

We wanted to sell the house real soon YET someone with a greedy heart claimed possession of our title and it is unclear what will gonna happen on Friday's meeting whether I should pursue the case or not.

Due to uncertainty, my eldest son applied for a job in a Saudi Arabian company today and fortunately he was accepted as computer technician. My promise to give him some capital to start a small computer shop business glooms with our current situation. I was angry with our situation and couldn't believe my eldest son will soon be away from me for two years in exchange for employment abroad.

I will surely miss my son... and the thought that I would not see him around here breaks my heart. If only I succeeded in selling our property last year, maybe, I have settled ourselves by now. :-(

Thursday, January 15, 2004

My father underwent right eye operation yesterday, following the first operation he had on his left eye last year. He's very happy with the results and he called me up this morning to thank my EX, for the financial assistance. I was not able to visit him yesterday prior to my accidental fall the other day but glad they understood my situation...

Many thanks to the rest of my family for being there for our father!

Sunday, December 07, 2003

My daughter had a small birthday celebration yesterday with her friends here at home but, her former schoolmates in Jesu-Mariae visited her today and they made an extended birthday party for her. Since we had financial difficulties, she tried to stay away from friends and prefers to stay home. Yet, her friends love her so much that they gathered together and gave her a surprise visit this evening. It's party time once again!

My house is open to all of my children's friends and I never scolded my kids nor distrust them, especially with their activities outside our home. I trusted them so much that they knew what is at stake should they made a mistake, it might cost their future!

When I was at their age, my chinese relatives never allowed us to accept friends and schoolmates at home. We lived in a very big compound in Quezon City and all the relatives were there. Each time I arrived home late for about 10-15 minutes, they scolded me as if I committed a crime. My aunt would then reminded me how my father was so stubborn in his younger years not to follow family rules and because of that, we should be well-guided and well-disciplined not to repeat the same fate of my father. It was a sad part of my life, I never enjoyed my teen-age life. Then, I was married to a man I didn't love, just because I had to ran away from my father who wanted me to marry a chinese businessman, 9 months after I graduated from high school. The biological father of my children was just a friend - I do not even know what love means at that time - but, because I had lost my virginity to him, I ha d to face the consequences. At the age of 18, I was living independently, had three lovely kids at the age of 23 and had been a single parent at 24!

My children deserve a better life. I believe if they grow up with love and devotion, they would do the same when they raise their own kids. And, while my daughter is enjoying partying with her friends, I feel good they didn't experienced what I had been through... c'est la vie!

Saturday, October 25, 2003

Competing and sharing with my kids my PC made me wish to buy a new computer, probably a laptop that incorporates the latest Intel Centrino mobile technology. They are still very expensive but hopefully I will find a good brand that fits to my budget.

The supposed relocation caused me some inconveniences and I temporarily access the net using dialup connection. However, if you are my friend and you wish to VoIP with me using SKYPE, a program which you can make perfect quality free phone calls to your friends in no time, my ID is lady_laila. Please review system requirements before downloading this program.

Thursday, October 16, 2003

Life is great in spite of the fact that about 72% of the entire Filipino people believe that we already reached the poverty level, ouch!

We keep holding on, who knows? There might be a twist of fortune real soon...

Thursday, July 17, 2003

If you do not see any new post here, that means we're a little bit busy at home. Life is good, thanks to God, and hopefully, I could get the fruits of my efforts before this month ends [with my fingers crossed].

To all my sincere friends who offered me prayers, I thank you, and God knows how much you cared for me.

May God bless us all and keep in touch...

Sunday, June 01, 2003

Ah! First day of June... whatever this month has in store for me, I am definitely sure I have to make a major change in my life...

I have no doubts God will be there for me always. My heart will guide me through... I can feel it!

Thursday, May 22, 2003

I have been in a desperate mood for the last few days but the excellent news that the World Health Organization on Wednesday removed the Philippines from a list of countries with recent local transmission of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome made me feel better.

Health officials said there were still four suspected SARS cases under observation in an undisclosed government hospital, but all the patients showed symptoms after returning from overseas trips, not because of local transmission. And we had no new cases of SARS for the past 20 days--twice the maximum incubation period.

Meanwhile, the financial crisis at home prompted me to think twice of selling my house. We are in a difficult situation that I must make a major decision soon and live within our capacity and means. I wish I have 'my other half'... deciding matters as a single parent has not been easy.

Saturday, March 15, 2003

Sent my resume and 4 passport size photos to the office, for employment abroad.