Moments, Captured In Words

one year older...

Last Monday, we celebrated Dan's birthday (his 40th!) with a cozy barbeque right in our lawn. It was just the two of us, happy and content in our own little world, savoring the decadent taste of grilled burgers and stir-fried vegetables, contemplating the vastness of the woods just beside our property, and enjoying the warmth of the fire as the late summer evening grew colder. Eowyn, dressed in full fall gear (poncho, sweater, leggings, boots), was in her element: twirling around the rugged stone pit that Dan just made and waving her pink and purple butterfly bubble wands as she laughed and counted from one till fourteen at the top of her lungs, her baby voice echoing in the stillness of the night. As the stars appeared and the moon cast a lovely silhouette on our spacious grounds, a deep sense of euphoria filled my heart. I have everything I can ever need. Life is good. Happy birthday, daddy!

Wala lang...

It's been two and a half months since we got back from our Philippine vacation, and loathe as I am to admit it, I still feel intense pangs of homesickness whenever I look at the pictures from home. I can't even bring myself to write about the trip either --- everytime I start, I stop and then I would just feel lonely and depressed. Today was a particularly bad day. Who would have thought that seeing a hazy picture of a tropical beach scene (on one of the checks I was processing) could trigger that bone-deep sadness again?

I don't know if it's just me... I mean, there must be many, many Filipinas out there who have gone home too and went back to resuming their lives in the US or some other foreign country without too much difficulty. Not me. I'm fine when I don't remember, but once I start mulling over what I've given up and what I can never have living abroad, I just feel quite despondent.

I miss my family and friends terribly, that's for sure. I guess one of the biggest sacrifices I made when I married Dan is yielding the chance to have them around all the time, to share joys and sorrows with them not through phone or emails but in person. I took that for granted in the past, and now it's just haunting me. When you're young and in love, you just never think too seriously about these things... but now...

Don't get me wrong. I am blissfully happy with Dan, but a part of me yearns strongly to have family and friends around. I am lonely and sometimes it's just killing me. So I go shopping and indulge my material whims (hah, go ahead and justify your addiction, you shopaholic gurl!!!). Good thing too that the new house and planting my garden are keeping me busy. I need my sanity! Would someone please throw some sunshine my way?

my kind of day

The first really warm day after winter always feels like heaven. Today, the temperature soared into the mid-70s and, I swear, I can bask in the sunshine all day and do nothing else! It's a perfect day to have some of your favorite ice cream, or read a good book by the pool, or plant flowers and tend to your garden. Instead, the best I can do is take a walk around the campus and listen to my ipod while relishing the sweet, almost summer feel of this wonderful spring afternoon. I love that the days are getting longer too. When I leave the office, it's still bright out (the sun doesn't set till around 8 in the evening) so I guess Dan, Wyn and I can still enjoy a few scoops of ice cream after work towards the tail-end of the afternoon. Yippee!

Remembering Jeanette

It was some sad news that greeted me last night as I checked my friendster account. Jeanette Miranda, a dear friend and classmate since grade school, has passed away. Eventhough she has been bed-ridden for almost three years now, the reality of her passing still came as a shock to me. Before I left for the US, I had visited her in San Pedro Hospital in Davao City while she was at the Intensive Care Unit fighting for her life. She was so young then, and I've always thought that she would pull it through. Every now and then I'd hear snippets from friends telling me about some minor improvement in her condition, although she never really had a full recovery. When I was home last month, we spoke of Jeanette again and I was in fact glad to learn that she's still hanging on. Miracles can happen, and maybe, just maybe, she will get one.

But the bulletin posted by Jingle and Ruby had me reeling. Jeanette's gone... so young, so soon! She's not even 30 yet! We share the same birth month, her birthday is just several days after mine. Confronted by her mortality, I suddenly feel vulnerable and scared. Youth does not protect us from death, nor does it shelter us from ill health. I just hope that wherever she is now, she has found eternal peace and tranquility. At least all her earthly sufferings are over. At last, she is finally home with her Creator.

I will always remember Jeanette as a sweet, gentle girl with a very kind disposition - I don't think she ever made enemies when we were still at school. Jeanette is the kind of girl whom everyone likes, always cheerful, always willing to lend a hand when you need it. We were not super close, but we were good friends. She will be missed! Please include her and her family in your prayers.

Homesick +++ Baby Update (Wyn @ 22 Months)

I started writing a piece about our Philippine vacation, but I guess it's too soon for me to do that. As I try to relive the memories and transform my thoughts into words, I am suddenly overtaken by a strong wave of homesickness. I can't do it! It's making me cry.

So here goes Eowyn's 22-month update instead: *sigh*

- had her first trip to the emergency room three days after we got back from the Philippines. Stricken with croup and an ear infection, Wyn was lethargic and would throw up whenever we gave her any food or milk. Fearing that she'd be dehydrated, I panicked and Dan quickly called our doctor, who gave us the go-ahead to take her to the ER (it was after office hours on Friday evening). What do you know, when we got there, she was little Ms. Smiles-and-Sunshine again... but not before she threw up in front of the nurse who was taking her vital signs and other symptoms. It's amazing how kids can be sick one minute, then be playful and cheerful the next. If you ask me, I'll take the latter anytime. I'm a scaredy-cat mom when it comes to my baby's health... just ask Dan!

- can eat meals on her own. My parents were surprised when Eowyn would sit with us at the table and eat her food from her own plate. No spoon-feeding, no running around after the baby to feed her! Her favorites include rice, pancit (noodles), fish and chicken. She's also discovered that pan de sal is a yummy treat!

- while she normally has a pleasant disposition, Eowyn can be quite nasty if pushed to her limits. While playing with her cousin Gian, she would usually just let him do what he wants... but when she's at the end of her rope, watch out! She would scream crossly "Go away, Gian!" or "No, Gian!", stunning the little boy to silence. Hee hee!

- she's picking up more and more vocabulary everyday. Try as I may, I can't keep track of all the words that she knows now. She can pretty much identify most things around the house now and can understand what Dan and I tell her. I still find it cute that she'd burst out "That's grandma!" or "Look, it's lolo!" whenever she sees the picture frames hanging in our walls.

- sings a lot! I always tease Dan that we have a little popstar in the making because lately, we've been hearing her croon a song even during the most unexpected moments, like in her carseat when we're on the road or late at night before we go to bed. The one she sings best is Twinkle Twinkle Little Star. Her version goes like this:

"Twee-ko, twee-ko lee-el star

Hah ah wan-dah what you are

Ah ah-bah da wohl so high

Lahk ah dya-mon in da sky."

What comes as a big revelation to me is the fact that as long as you expose your baby to songs, even if she doesn't seem to be paying any attention at that time, her little mind is already processing all that information. One day, you'll just be surprised that she's already spewing out the lyrics to the songs - like Eowyn did one day when mama and Ilay prompted her to complete the words of the nursery rhymes we've sung to her! Really and truly, I was amazed. I had no idea that she already memorized it!

- This latest development prompted me to buy a whole slew of learning DVDs for Wyn. I highly recommend the Brainy Baby series, which you can get brand new from amazon.com at less than $10 each. It's an investment well worth it, and I should know because I'm already beginning to see the results! With some prompting, Wyn can count from one to ten and say the letters in the alphabet. She's also starting to recognize numbers, letters, shapes and colors.

Truly, it is so exciting to see the transformation of my adorable baby to a smart little girl. When I look at her now, I see only traces of the little one I held and nursed in my arms for over a year! She is all girl now, a toddler with her own temperament and personality. I miss my baby... I do! Sometimes I just wish time can move a little slower, so much slower, so that I can savor each and every moment of Eowyn's growing up years. I'm sure every mommy knows what  mean!

more things to do

A quick apology to friends who are waiting to hear about our recent Philippine vacation and see the pictures we took there. I've started to upload pictures in my friendster profile but there are still a ton more to share. I promise I'll get these done as soon as I can. I assure you, I have not forgotten!

And then there's the update I need to do on Eowyn at 22 months! She's so much fun now, singing and talking like a little girl would. Let me gush a little bit about how she sings, because it's just the cutest thing in the world! I had no idea that she knows the words to the songs by heart until I asked her to fill in the blanks one day. What do you know, she can complete the lyrics in songs like Itsy Bitsy Spider, Mary Had A Little Lamb, Mr. Peter Rabbit, Baa Baa Black Sheep, Hey Diddle Diddle, Three Blind Mice, Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, Rock A Bye Baby, Bingo, Old MacDonald and a lot more... even the Tagalog song Ako Ay May Lobo! :-)

Ooopps. Phone's ringing now. Till later!

i'll live through this week...

I had thought I was invincible, immune to the flu-like illness that affected Dan and Eowyn these past few days since we got back from the Philippines. And then this morning came and I woke up with more than just the sniffles. I was congested. My head hurt. I felt a little nauseous. Unwanted tears burned my eyes.

I took a quick hot shower and even before I got out of the bathroom, my heart sank with dread knowing that I would have to call in sick today. It's just a bummer that I had to halt my momentum. Over these past few days, I meticulously strove to erase my work backlog in the office. I was feeling happy that I was catching up with the paperwork and everything else that had to be done - donations to process, emails to read and answer, invoices to pay, an assortment of researches to complete. And now this...

I do not need to be sick. Not when there are a gazillion things to do!

Before the month ends, we will be closing in on a mortgage for a house that we're buying. Dan is stressing himself endlessly to tie up all the odds and ends that are required to close the deal.

And then we have to shop for new fixtures and appliances for the house. We need to get new carpets, a new couch, a washer and a dryer, a fridge and a free-standing range. The pressure of shopping as well as the whopping cost of all these things combined is giving me a headache!

Ah, well. I just tell myself everything will be fine. The going may get rough, but well, sometimes you just have to deal. I'll live thruogh this, I know I will.

i'm back...

The two weeks I spent in Davao were over in an instant. Suddenly, I found myself packing our bags again and wishing I had more time to do everything I wanted to do. Sadly, some things just had to be left undone... till next time. I truly feel bad about leaving. I was homesick even before we left, and still am. When I've gotten over this draining jetlag and wistful depression, I'll blog more about our trip. But for now, I just want to let you all know that we're back, safe and sound! Adios!

My thoughts on a snowy day...

Davao, here we come...

It's another snowy day today, another burst of cold winter weather that just amplifies my enthusiasm for our upcoming Davao vacation. I have not packed our bags yet, and even if this task is something I really look forward to doing, I have been holding it off because I know that once I get started, I probably won't be able to sleep anymore from euphoria. I already have an array of warm summer clothing for myself, Dan and Eowyn to choose from... and sinful mommy that I am, most of Wyn's stuff are, of course, brand new and very diligently (happily!) picked. Dada shudders at how much I indulge my little princess, but that's hard not to do when you have a living, breathing, perfect, beautiful doll. Being able to dress up Eowyn is, I should say, one of the things I do so love about mommy-hood. So there. Forgive me, once again, for gushing.

Daddy makes me proud

Because of today's snowstorm, Dan and I may not be able to attend the Honors Society event slated tonight at the UAlbany campus. Not that I mind that much, but I really think it's wonderful that Dan made it to the list once more and all the efforts he is putting into earning a doctorate degree are paying off. It just makes me beam with pride to be the other half of this wonderful, cerebral man who continues to astonish me every day not just with his many talents but most of all his love. If Eowyn inherits her daddy's brains, good looks, and gentle disposition, I will be the proudest mommy someday too (that, if I can be any prouder than I already am at the moment!).

Amazing Wyn

I guess it's safe to say that this early, Eowyn is already showing signs of being just as smart as her dada. She is quick to learn and has continually surprised me with her ability to remember things that I did not even know she noticed. At 18 months, she can recognize all the animals on her books and can point at them or say their names when asked. She can also identify parts of her body from hair to toe. She knows what a hat is, a coat, sweater, mittens, tights, socks, shoes and boots are. She can count from one to ten, if she's not lazy, but otherwise, you would have to prod her. She chants along with mommy when I sing the alphabet song. She'd point at the pictures hanging on our wall and name, with amazing accuracy, who those people are - great grandma, great grandpa, grandma, lolo, lola, mommy, daddy, and so on and so forth. She'd watch a movie or a tv show and would suddenly pipe up "Look, it's raining!" or "It's a monkey!" or "Wow, lights!" or "Hahaha! Funny!" reflecting on what she saw on tv. Truly, it's such a delight to watch her grow.

Lately, Wyn has been speaking in straight sentences more and more. On the way home from work the other night, we saw a stalled truck by the road and a police car with lights flashing parked behind it. From the back seat, Eowyn exclaimed curiously "Look! Did you see 'at? It's a fire truck!" I laughed when I heard her, and asked her again if it was a fire truck. She answered me matter of factly "Yes, it's a fire truck!" Never mind if it wasn't really a fire truck - everything that makes noise and has flashing lights fall under that category where Eowyn is concerned.

Also, when we passed by the mall yesterday, there was an unusually large number of cars on the parking lot. Unsure about what's happening, I asked Dan what's going on there. Eowyn came to daddy's rescue quick, and answered her mommy: "What's going on? I don't know!" I burst out laughing at her response, and told her she's so cute. Encouraged by mommy's laughter, Eowyn continued to chant "I don't know... I don't know... I don't know!" until I gave her a goldfish (parmesan-flavored crackers) to shut her up. That worked, but only for a little bit until she finished munching her food, then went on to pester mommy: "Want some... more fish, please?" Ah, the wonders of motherhood!

More winter blah...

Today is another cold day. And idiot that I am when it comes to winter weather, I thought that wearing a wool coat over my lambswool sweater would be enough to combat below freezing temperatures made even colder by the wind chill. The moment I stepped out of the house, I knew I made another fashion faux pas even if I'm not wearing my stilleto-heeled boots anymore. Not that it would have mattered too much. Most of the snow and ice on the pavement had already melted (thanks to yesterday's brief spell of warm weather), and it's supposed to stay clear and sunny today. But the wind... bbbrrrrrrrr! I walked over to the other building just a few minutes ago, and it was all I could do to keep from freezing!

I should have worn my down-filled coat today, but when I opened the closet this morning, I found my black wool coat just begging for attention. I had not worn it in more than a month, and besides, it matched my outfit so I threw all caution to the wind and ignored the little voice in my head saying I should wear a warmer coat. Even when I was shivering as I headed towards the car, I never told Dan I regretted not putting on my down coat. I just knew what he would tell me: serves you right, honey! I've heard him complain so many times about how many winter coats I own, and yet I never wear the right one when it matters. *sigh*

Summer is a lot less complicated than winter, and that's why I miss it so. But spring is almost around the corner and just the thought of warmer weather makes me happy. Besides, there is that promise of tropical bliss when we visit Davao next month. It will be April when we come back, and it will be a hell of a lot warmer then. So yay! I guess I can endure a little bit more of this darn bitter cold New York winters.

Wyn Remembers Fos

Last Saturday, Dan and I went to a local store to look at wood stoves and fireplaces. It was a nice, cozy establishment with several models of stoves and fireplaces lit up. As usual, Eowyn enjoyed looking at the fires, going near them, and with a smug look on her face, exclaiming "It's hot! It's hot!" While Dan talked with the sales agent and I browsed through the different units on display with Eowyn, I suddenly heard her shouting "Foster! Foster!" For a moment, I was dumbfounded why she did that since there was no little boy in the store and I did not know what triggered her to look for Foster. So I told Eowyn that Foster's not there and we'll go look at his pictures when we get home. Still, Eowyn went running around the room shouting for Foster. By this time, I was really puzzled and the bemused agents all laughed when they heard her bellowing for Foster in her little baby voice. And then it dawned on me... When we met the Hartungs in Seven Springs last Christmas, Foster and Eowyn were playing by the fireplace and I think that she was remembering this when we were at the store! Miss you, Mommy K and Fos! How I wish Eowyn and Foster can play together all the time!

Happy New Year!

2007 has been a wonderful year for me. It's amazing how fast it seemed to zoom by! I got so many blessings this year, but the best was watching Eowyn grow up into a healthy, happy, smart, beautiful toddler. Nothing can top that on my list!

As we welcome another year, I tell myself I won't be making any resolutions... but there are a few things on my list of what I hope to do. I am not sure if I can keep them, but just for the sake of putting it into words, here are some of my hope-to-do list:

- lose weight! I am gaining more than I want to, shucks!

- shop less, especially on ebay... need I say more?

- clean the house and organize things as often as I should (and this means everyday!)

- save more money, save more money, save more money (which basically just means I should shop less... mwehehe!)

Anyways, here's wishing everyone a safe, wonderful, and exciting new year!

Christmas Tree

We're getting our second dose of bad winter weather this weekend, and thanks to that, I finally managed to put up our Christmas tree. This is the first year that Eowyn is old enough to enjoy and appreciate the holidays, so it's doubly fun and special for us all.

The moment I took the tree out of the box, my little angel was all wide-eyed with wonder. She immediately took a piece of branch and paraded all over the room with it. When I started stringing the Christmas lights around the tree, she just had to help me. And when I plugged it in and the tree was all lit up, Eowyn exclaimed "Wowwwww!" with a big smile on her face.

Curious little thing that she is, Wyn also began taking the ornaments off the tree and played with them. Our tree is now devoid of any decors on the bottom (except for the lights) because anything she can reach, she will definitely get!

Dan and I decided that we will decorate the tree with real candy canes instead, and I was all eager to go to a nearby store today to buy some, but to my dismay, they were closed because of the storm. Bummer! That means I could not get ornament hooks as well and could not hang the rest of my glass balls. But no matter, I am still happy and satisfied especially when I see Eowyn playing around the tree --- or under it!

Yup, you heard me right. Her new favorite place now is under the tree where she would gaze up the tree and look at all the lights. She can stay there for a long time, so I thought it would be  a good idea to put some of her stuffed toys there with her. She loved it!

Christmas is truly a special time. I can't wait for her to open all her presents on Christmas morning! I'm sure that would be a blast as well! But for now, I'm just enjoying the warmth of our home and the company of the two dearest persons I love most in this world. I am happy, very very happy! Advance merry Christmas to all!

Of corruption, rudeness, and a bunch of other negas

Corruption

The headline in today's leading Philippine newspapers were all the same: Erap receiving pardon from GMA. My first reaction? What the f*ck!!!

I just can't understand why a person who is convicted of plunder and corruption is set free just like that! Gloria says it's for the sake of national reconciliation and unity... big bull crap! Long ago I used to be a Gloria supporter, but now I am really convinced that she is a megalomaniac who would do anything and everything to hold on to power! Isn't it glaring, isn't it as clear as broad daylight, that with all the scandals hounding her administration, Gloria is desperate enough to strike a deal with the devil if that means she would continue to be president? Hell, I wouldn't be surprised if she gave the go-ahead on that Glorietta explosion to divert the public's attention from the monkey business going on in her administration!

While Erap's supporters rejoice, I am fuming with anger and indignation, but also in the same vein, I grieve. Politics back home can possibly not get any dirtier than this! Whatever happened to justice, to equality, to integrity? Ganu'n na lang ba talaga kadali 'yun? Gloria's unforgivable act of pardoning Erap just signals other corrupt politicians to go on with their misdeeds, because they can get away with it... because justice and integrity in the Philippines have no meaning. It pains me to know that the government has sunk this low. I'm sorry to say this... but there's no hope for our country now, not with the kind of leaders we have and not with the kind of attitude Filipinos have about corruption. *sigh* Nakakaiyak na nakakasuka na nakakadiri.

Rudeness

The other day, a colleague came back in the office after doing an errand, obviously still a little shaken, about a remark some guy made in some store here in the area. After paying for her purchases, my officemate, who is a very gracious and cheerful lady, bid the guy to "have a nice day!" To her surprise, he rudely remarked "I don't believe in telling other people what to do." Taken aback, she said "Excuse me?" to which he replied "You told me to have a nice day. You're telling me what to do!" Ever the poised and congenial person that she is, she gave him a smile and said in parting "Well then, best wishes for a nice day!" then promptly walked away.

I must admit that when she told me this, I could not believe what I heard. Are some people really so crabby and rude that they can't even accept pleasantries from well-meaning persons? It makes me wonder what is so wrong in their lives that they behave so insolently and so horridly? Are they really bursting with a huge surplus of negativity that it's not enough to keep their ill feelings to themselves, they have to go on and infect other people with their gloom as well? Geez.

A bunch of other negas?

I can probably go on and on about negative energies surrounding the world (ha! ha!) but I won't. My day is already ruined by the Erap pardon, and I do intend to have a wonderful weekend with Dan and Eowyn, despite all the crap going on elsewhere. My wish for all of you who happened to read this blog is simple: be happy and stay away from the negas in life! And, exactly as what my colleague wisely articulated: best wishes for a nice day!

Astig!

An American colleague sent me a link to a news article posted in BBC News online about a YouTube video of prison inmates from Cebu dancing to the tune of Thriller. I quickly checked it out, and my oh my! I'm bemused! Asteeeeg!

Here's the link to the video if you wanna check it out: Filipino Inmates Thriller Video

Ibang level! Galing sumayaw nu'ng guy na nasa gitna ha! Makes me wonder, ano kaya naging kasalanan n'ya? :p

Viking Camp

When Dan first told me about Viking re-enactment camp, I thought that it was one of the strangest, most whimsical things I’ve ever heard. Imagine people dressing up in Viking costumes, sporting Viking accessories, and living like the Vikings on one zany weekend. I remember thinking at that time (and the same thoughts still cross my mind even now, mind you) that these Americans are a little crazy. Or perhaps they just have too much time and resources in their hands that they can afford to engage in these fantasy re-enactments when they want to.

I say this because buying a simple Viking costume can be quite pricey. A plain linen hand-made dress costs somewhere between $50 to $200, and the apron over-dress that comes with it probably costs just as much too. A wool coat is even more expensive. Unless you sew the clothes yourself, be prepared to pay the price. Believe me, I nearly had a heat flush when Dan told me that he got a $75 Viking dress for me to wear on last week’s re-enactment camp. My friends know that I’m a real sucker for sales (especially clearance ones) and I really abhor spending money on expensive items. That Viking dress can very easily be the most expensive piece of clothing that I own, and it breaks my heart that it’s not even something I can wear everyday. Ugh!

But anyway, I was pleasantly surprised to find out that Viking camp can be lots of fun. Despite my previous misgivings about it (I was even cranky on Saturday morning before we left because I convinced myself that I would be bored to the core during the Thyng), it was really an eye-opener of sorts to me. More than just the fun stuff, it is also a very cultural and historical centered event.

I enjoyed watching the Viking war fights, the archery contests, as well as the axe and spear throwing competitions. The food during the feast was incredibly good too, but what really made my day was the bonfire/funeral pyre that they held on Saturday night. It was a chilly night but once they got the fire burning, whoa! Even Eowyn got rosy cheeks from the warmth of the fire. I have never seen a bonfire as large as that, or witnessed some sort of funeral ceremony for deceased comrades.

So… I’m now looking forward to the Fall Thyng. Perhaps I’ll even buy (or make) a Viking girl costume for Eowyn too. We’ll see.

Birthday and Baby Blues

My 29th birthday wasn't one of the best, but I should say it was happy, anyway. Who was it who said that everyday that you're alive is reason enough to celebrate? Even if things don't go as well as you hoped, there are still many things to be thankful for.

Yesterday started out quite depressing for me. It was a cold, rainy day and so we have to cancel our plans to go to the garden show in a nearby county. Worst of all, Eowyn was sick and I'm sure every mommy will commiserate with me when I say this is enough to ruin the day.

My baby has been having fever on and off since Monday night, and finally on Thursday, our doctor diagnosed her with a mild ear infection and prescribed antibiotics for her. Last Friday, Eowyn developed rashes and had very wet poops. Ironically, the first phone call we made on my birthday (Saturday) was to the doctor's office. Dan refused to give Eowyn her medicine since we already suspected that she's allergic to it, but we wanted to be sure and get the doctor's opinion anyway.

Eowyn was miserable all morning while we waited for the doctor to call us back. Dan prohibited me to give her any food until after we hear from Dr. M since the medicine should be taken one hour before or two hours after any feeding. That way, if we get the go-ahead signal from the doctor, it's okay to give Eowyn her medicine right away.

I felt so bad looking at Eowyn's rashes and hearing her cry. I was worried all the more because of her wet poops. What if she gets dehydrated? I'd give anything in the world to make her feel better, but unfortunately, there wasn't much I can do at the moment. I've never felt so helpless, or lost, in my entire life as I did that morning.

I was really resigned to accepting that my birthday is the worst one ever, until my "twen" and very good friend Senia called me all the way from Germany. We had a fun time chatting and marvelling at our babies' accomplishments and how fast they have grown! Shana is such an adorable baby, and I'm sure she and Eowyn will be good friends someday. Di ba, twenny?

Things started picking up after Senia called me. Shortly after I put the phone down, my mother-in-law was on the line and we talked for quite a bit. Then Dan went to get the mail and I got several packages from ebay (baby clothes, what else?) as well as a sweet card from mom, with a very generous check so I "can go shopping."

Since we couldn't go out for dinner, Dan just bought me my favorite barbequed ribs from Pig Pit as well as fried sweet potatoes, hush puppies and macaroni salad. Yum! The little rascal also managed to buy me some flowers (a bouquet of fresh ones and a potted one) for my birthday.

At the end of the day, I was happy enough to be skipping (but I didn't really, mind you!). Eowyn was feeling a lot better too and with great conviction, I'd say this was the best birthday gift for me ever!

Lastly, I wanna say thanks to all my friends (near and far) who sent greetings yesterday. You all really made it special for me.

Some old news...

Last week was quite a bad week. I caught a cold, which was really bad, and I had to stay home for two days to nurse it. Shucks! My already depleted Paid Time Off credits shrunk even more, and much as I hated to miss work, I had no choice because I was feeling really sick. Haaaayyy...

That's not the worse part though. Dan and Eowyn caught my cold too. My poor loves! Thankfully, daddy seemed to get over it quickly, but my little Boopy is still battling a fever. Her temperature reached 100.8 F last night, prompting Dan to call our doctor just in case. Of course, it's nothing to be worried about but it's always nice to get some reassurance from the experts. The one thing that sets my mind at ease though is that even if Eowyn has fever, she wasn't at all lethargic - although she did eat less and tossed & turned in bed last night because of her congestion. The funny thing was, she never cried and was instead bent on sleeping.

Well, on to hapier news.

I love it that the days are getting so much warmer. Yippee! This weekend, the temperatures were in the upper to mid 70s, and tomorrow we'll even reach the low 80s. Doesn't that just feel like summer to you?

Ooooops! Baby's waking up. Till next!

the weekend that was

Monthly shopping escapades with my friends Juls and Ruth are always fun. Last Saturday, we invaded the premises of the Colonie Center Mall (and would have gone to Crossgates too if we had time) to look for great bargains and just have pure, unadulterated hours of girl power fun!

I even conveniently forgot I had a baby at home – but no worries here, since daddy is always willing to babysit little Eowyn whenever I feel the need to unwind. Dan’s really great at that. He seldom (if at all) complains about watching Boopy, even if she’s extra clingy and fussy during the day.

But better than anything else, I love coming home to Dan’s welcoming arms, Eowyn’s sloppy kisses, a hot meal, and a relaxing foot massage from hubby. Dan is really such a saint and the sweetest man ever. I’m so lucky to have him in my life!

Easter Sunday was rather uneventful. No big celebrations or exciting Easter egg hunts, because after all, it’s just Dan and me here in NY. This is one of the times when I really miss having family close by… but, oh well.

Dan took us out for dinner in an Adirondack-themed resto though. Dakota serves good food, and I feasted on my rice pilaf, sirloin steak, crab-stuffed jumbo shrimps, and delightful entrees from their salad bar. Even Eowyn enjoyed her food: apple sauce, beans, and cottage cheese. The beets she made known she didn’t like: she made a face when I gave her a tiny bite of the purple-colored veggie, sending Dan to fits of laughter when he saw her expression.

Overall, it was a wonderful weekend. I’m back on the grind again today, but this won’t last long as we’re heading to Pennsylvania on Wednesday to attend Loriann’s wedding. Yippee!

Shopping to the max!

Believe it or not, yesterday was my first day out with the girls - on my own and sans Dan - since I got here in the US. I never really thought about it until then, and I immensely enjoyed it.

Juls, Ruth and I went to Crossgates Mall, feeling like birds who got out of their cages. Without our husbands, we had all the time in the world to do some shopping, never having to worry about someone breathing down our necks and telling us to hurry up. You know how men are when it comes to shopping - they are always in a rush and quite impatient when we ladies take awhile to scan and study a merchandise before purchasing it.

I am especially bad at that. While it's true that I am an impulsive shopper, it also takes me a looooong time to decide what I want to buy. I would make several rounds of the store, comparing products, and then comparing them one more time, before I make a decision on what to buy. And even then, sometimes I cannot even decide and would leave the store premises empty handed. Thank God Dan is very patient (or as patient as he can be) with me on that!

Yesterday, Ruth and Juls had a taste of that too. We had to go to Christopher & Banks twice because I can't make up my mind whether I want to buy a lovely white sweater that's on sale there. I ended up not buying the thing, but when I got home last night, I wished I did. Maybe I can still convince Dan to take me to Crossgates this week so I can get that sweater. *cross my fingers*

Lugging several bags filled with office clothes and baby outfits after more than five hours of shopping, I went home hungry (because we gave up our lunch hour to have more shopping time) and exhausted (oh my poor tired aching feet!) but very happy. Whew, whatta day!

Juls and Ruth... sa uulitin?!

Halo-halo Moments

Eowyn Talks!

I was in the kitchen the other day, doing the dishes, when I heard Dan trying to soothe a fussy Boopy. Despite dada's "A for effort" attempts to calm her down, Eowyn is still crying at the top of her lungs. Finally, after several minutes of futile endeavor, Dan called out to me and said perhaps I should feed the baby.

As I am almost done with my task anyway, I promptly proceeded to the living room where I found my number one man holding my number one baby on his lap. I planted a quick kiss on Eowyn's cheek while Dan asked her "Are you hungry, hungry, hungry?"

Boopy, her face all red from crying, took a moment's break from sobbing and muttered a loud, impatient "YES!" Dan and I burst out laughing. You definitely made your point, Cookie Dough!

Huge Sales

Don't you just love it when department stores cut super big discounts  (read: up to 70% off) on selected merchandise? Ever the shopaholic mommy, I scaled the aisles of JCPenney and Kohl's for great bargains... and huge bargains I did find!

By the time I'm done, I was lugging home several shopping bags filled with baby clothes, bath towels, and even a food processor to make baby food! In my opinion (even if Dan could never understand this), it was a day well spent! Yay!

Winter's here... at last!

And I thought, that having been here for a year, I am already quite familiar with winter and all its idiosyncracies. Boy, I was never more wrong!

Yesterday, the weather here in our neck of the woods was quite nasty. Icy rain and sleet was in the forecast, but that didn't deter Dan and me from going out, anyway.

I was very surprised when I found Dan throwing salt on our porch steps and waited a few minutes before descending. I asked him why he did that, and he told me that they are icy. Salt melts the ice, apparently.

I looked at the steps and to my untrained tropical eyes, they simply look wet. By then, dada and Boopy were already down and Dan cautioned me to be careful. I nodded and held the wooden railings, and to my surprise again, they felt cold and very slippery. Ice!

I was awed by the thought, as I plodded cautiously from the porch to the garage, that the whole town is like one big freezer. I kicked some icicles on the grass and avoided icy puddles on the ground, feeling light of heart and quite adventurous. At long last, winter is finally here!

Weird Warm Weather

First of all, I am not complaining!

I love the fact that it's still quite warm (our local meteorologists say that the temperature is above normal and cold weather is not in the offing for a few more days at least). In fact, tomorrow we will have a high of 60 F. That's quite unusual in January!

It just seems weird that while Colorado and parts of the Pacific Northwest had been pounded by snow several feet high a few weeks ago, the Capital District of New York (where I live) barely saw any sign of snow. Sure there had been a few flurries, but the snow always melted when it hit the ground. It was much too warm for that!

I remember that around this time last year, the weather was already freezing and we had a good bit of snow accumulation on the ground too. But now... would you believe I can still walk outside wearing only a warm wool sweater and no coat? *shakes head* One of my officemates mused yesterday that it is like "picnic table weather." She was sorely tempted to bring her lunch and eat it outside; it was such a nice warm spring-like day!

If it were only up to me, I sure would like the weather to stay this mild forever! I hate winters... but, oh snow, where art thou? Truthfully, it is quite scary when I think that all these above normal temperatures is already part of global warming! Last summer we had a long spell of heat wave too and now winter feels just like spring! That led the same officemate to remark that perhaps her tulips will be blooming soon, confused with the weird weather patterns lately.

Dan tells me not to worry, that I will see some snow very soon. I have mixed feelings about that. I hate the cold, but it will give me peace of mind when things are getting back to normal again.

Post Script on Saturday morning: I was watching ABCnews last night and the warm weather in NY was one of their main headlines. I never thought that this really weird, unseasonably warm temperature is creating too much stir already. Yaiks!

Christmas in Bear Rocks

Christmas was not especially spectacular, but it was wonderful nonetheless (even if there was no snow). Dan had hoped for a white Christmas, but that was not to be. Temperatures in our neck of the woods continue to be above normal, and frankly, I don't know whether I should be happy about it or not. I want to see some snow, but I'm also pleased about the warm (if you can call 30-40 degrees Fahrenheit that) weather.

Anyway, it was great seeing mom and the rest of the family again. More than the gifts and the food, it was the companionship and camaraderie of people who are dear to me that I really enjoyed. On Christmas Eve, we attended the Candlelight Service at church (a Baptist congregation in Mt. Zion) and oh, that was amazing! I had a fun time singing Christmas carols with everyone and I was just bowled over when two young women sang "The Rose of Bethlehem" (not so sure of the title) a capella. Their voices were as sweet as angels!

Mom was super proud to introduce Eowyn to everyone, and I myself was also beaming with pride when they gushed and cooed over the baby. (Oo na, stage mother talaga ako!) Boopykins was very good too. She was all smiles and happy during most of the service, until towards the end of the candlelight ceremony when she started to be upset about the dark and got hungry. It was funny though when Dan had to cover her mouth with a burp cloth to shut her up (because she would  then nibble on it) as she babbled loudly "da-da-da!"

As for gifts, it really still astounds me how generous everyone is when it comes to giving presents. Among others, I received a set of body lotion, shower gel and perfume from Dan; chocolates, a set of beautiful hand-made notecards with pretty dried flowers, a jar of body cream, a  warm robe and a 72-piece silverware from mom; footspa supreme, a snowman home decor and 5 pretty blouses from Sandy; and a lovely shirt from Don. Eowyn had her share of the loot too. She got tons of cute outfits and toys from mama and dada, grandma, Aunt Sandy and Uncle Don, as well as from friends. Thanks very much, everyone!

I should say though that the greatest and most precious gift I received this year is Eowyn. Christmas (and my whole life) is a million times more special with her.

Happy holidays to all!

Funny lang po...

Kaasar! I'm still here in the office waiting for Dan to pick me up. He's still not done writing his paper, which was due yesterday... at kung hindi lang talaga important 'yung ginagawa n'ya, super imbyerna na talaga ang beauty ko. But since it's his schoolwork naman, okay na rin sa akin kahit maghintay ako ng 1 hour more dito sa office.

Anyway, to keep me occupied, I was browsing www.peyups.com and found this really funny post about beauty contest boo-boos. Para tuloy akong tanga, ngingiti-ngiti dito sa office at pinipigilan ang tawa ko habang binabasa ko ito.

Enjoy!

********************

The Best Answers Pageant Questions

Host : Saan ang dream vacation mo?
Girl Contestant : Amangpulo.

Host : What was the very first gift that you gave to your girlfriend?
Male Contestant : Uhmm...taptoy.
Host : What taptoy?
Male Contestant : Taptoy na teddy bird.

Host : What's your ideal age for marriage?
Girl : Uhm, uhm, I am not sure....
Host : Hindi, kunwari ikaw, more or less.
Girl : Uhmm... more. (Crowd booing... ) Sige, Sige. Less, less....

Host : If you had a foreigner friend, where will you bring him to showcase the beauty of the Philippines?
Girl Contestant : Bocaue.
Host : Bocaue. Why Bocaue? There are so many places in the Philippines? Why Bocaue?
Girl : Because it's a magnificent place.
Host : Which part of Bocaue?
Girl : The Bocaue Rice Terraces. (Banawe Kaya Yon!!)

The contestant, presenting herself, talks into the mic and says, "Hi! I'm Cristine Reyes from Bagiuo...," and then she turns around, walks a little, goes back then yells at the top of her lungs! Then shouts, "CITYYYYYYYY!!!!"

(From Little Miss Philippines)
Host : Anong gusto mo pag-laki mo?
Girl : Maging lalaki po!

Host : Who's your favorite author?
Contestant : Danielle Steele
Host : Why Danielle Steele?
Contestant : Because, because...Danielle Steele, I like best.

Host : How would you like me to address you?
Contestant : My address is Project 8, Quezon City.

Host : What is your best feature?
Contestant : My graduation feature.

Host : So tell us, why did join this contest?
Contestant : Me, join this contest, why did I. Thank you!

Host : What do you want to be after you graduate?
Contestant : I want to be a successful Medicine.

Host : Hindi ito boob, hindi ito tube. Pero tinatawag itong boobtube. Ano ito?
Contestant : BRA!

Host : What is you favorite motto?
Contestant : If others can't why, why can't I!

Host : What would you like to say to foreigners?
Contestant : Please come back.

(From gay beauty contest)
Host : What is the one thing that symbolizes happiness for you?
Gay contestant : (Stops, thinks and then smiles.) EGGPLANT PO!

Host : What is your typical day?
Contestant : I think Saturday po!

(From gay contest)
Host : Ano ang advantage mo sa ibang contestant?
Gay Contestant : I think and believe na bilang isang bading......ano nga po ulit yung question?

Host : Which part of your body is your best asset?
Contestant : (Believe it or not she answered) Si Melanie Marquez po!

Host : What is your favorite motto?
Contestant : (After a long pause) I don't have a motto eh. (So the crowd starts helping her out. The crowd starts saying "Time is gold! Time is gold!")
Contestant : I have na po. Chinese gold!

Host : If you were to describe the color blue to a blind person, how would you do it?"
Contestant : That's a very good question. Keep it up. (Then the girl turns and walks away.)

Host : So, you're vegetarian, what is your favorite vegetable?
Contestant : I like potatoes, tomatoes, beans and what's that? KALABASH?

Host : What is your motto?
Contestant : Actor! (Everyone starts laughing.) Aay, actress pala.

Host : Who is your favorite fictional character?
Girl : JOSE RIZAL! (Crowd starts laughing.)
Host : Who is your favorite hero then?
Girl : Hulk Hogan.

Host : If you were to become a superhero, what would your power be?
Girl Contestant : Uhmm... a bumble bee!

Host : What is your edge over the other contestants?
Girl Contestant : My edge.... 23 years old.

Host : What, in your opinion, is the ideal age for marriage?
Girl : Between 24 and 25!

Host : How do you see yourself 10 years from now?
Girl : I'll be 28.

Host : Describe your love one in three words.
Girl : Kahit nga po 1 word, kaya ko.
Host : OK, sige!
Girl : In one word, MY LIFE!

Host : If you were given any special power, what would it be?
Girl : Power of Attorney!

Host : So you like reading, who's your favorite author?
Girl : Uhmm, Shakespeare.
Host : What works of Shakespeare?
Girl : Hindi ko po alam eh.
Host : But he's your favorite.
Girl : Eh kasi patay na sya eh.

Host : What is the biggest problem facing the youth today?
Girl : Drugs.
Host : Why?
Girl : Mahal eh!

Host : What is the essence of being gay?
Contestant : I'm proud to be gay because what is naked is essential to the eye!

Host : What makes you blush?
Girl : Blush on!

Host : Hey, I heard you almost didn't make it, how did you get here? Did you ride or did you walk?
Gay Contestant : Of course, did you ride. What do you think of me, did you walk?

Missing Davao :-(

I'm torn between two extreme emotions. Christmas is always one of the happiest times of the year for me, but since I moved here in the US, it has also been one of the toughest.

I have never had severe bouts of homesickness (except right after giving birth to Eowyn at the height of my post partum blues), but at this time of the year, the loneliness just kicks in. I miss papa and mama and Ilay and Hadi and Kuya Gen. I miss all my friends. I miss the food and the warm weather. I miss Davao!

*big sigh*

On the other hand, I am excited about celebrating our first Christmas with Eowyn! Dan tells me not to spoil her too much and buy her a lot of gifts... but can I resist? *grins like the Cheshire cat* Shopping for Eowyn gives me immense pleasure. In fact, I enjoy buying stuff for her more than I do for myself. I try not to overdo it though because I also don't wanna get Eowyn started on the material culture of celebrating the holidays. Eeeekkk! That's actually quite a scary thought!

We will be spending Christmas with Dan's mom in Pennsylvania. I always love coming home to Bear Rocks. At least, even if I'm not with my family in Davao, it still feels like home to me. And I know that even if I'm not physically there with them (my family) to celebrate this season of love and giving, they are keeping me close to their hearts and thinking of me and Eowyn and Dan.

I miss you all back home.

First Week High

It feels great to blog again. After a week of not posting even a single entry, I feel somewhat liberated now that I found time to update my online journal. It's been a crazy busy past five days for me, but it's Saturday now and I do need to have a respite after working my butt off this past week.

Well, that's not entirely true. But yes, I am working again!

Actually, work has been super duper wonderful in every way. Everyone in the office really made me feel welcome and they took the extra mile to help me get settled in the everyday routine. This first week was mostly just training for me... and parties! Already I've been to two parties, with one more to go this Monday.

Last Tuesday, we had our department holiday party and we went bowling. Eeeeekkk! It's funny because I am a bad bowler but I gamely played anyway. I got the lowest score and received an award for the effort! And then yesterday was the college Christmas party. The food was excellent and there was dancing afterwards. But since I have two left feet, I just chatted with some new-found friends and tried (in vain!) to familiarize myself with the faces of everyone there. It was hopeless though because I guess there were more than 200 people in that party! It was definitely crowded.

While I had a blast working again, the only thing that dampens my enthusiasm is that I MISS Eowyn every. single. second. of. the. day!!! I can't even tell you how much! I always look forward to the end of my work day when I can see her again. It's the highlight of my day to see Dan walk in through the office door carrying Eowyn in his arms, all bundled up in her pink Pooh snowsuit.

Then the transformation begins: I am mommy one million percent all over again! T'is the one role I cherish and enjoy most of all.

Ibang klase...

This incident happened early this morning.

I called my parents at about 7 AM  today (8 PM in the Philippines) to greet them a happy anniversary (it's now their 32nd wedding anniversary... hanep, noh?) and the first time I dialed mama's cellphone number, I think I got it wrong.

Instead of hearing mama's cheerful "Hello!", I heard someone say "Emergency hotline, good morning..." Ooooops! I didn't quite know what to make of it so I put the phone down. I figured I simply misdialed and told Dan about it, who was busy getting ready for work.

Dan asked me "Did you by any chance dial 911?" and I answered absent-mindedly, "Maybe." There's a chance that I hit 911-63-920-xxxx instead of 011 (the international dialing code) -63-920-xxxx. By then I was already busy redialing mama's number so I didn't really think too much about it.

After a couple of rings, I finally heard mama's voice and we gabbed for about 10 minutes or so. Then, I heard the doorbell ring. Dan was almost ready to leave for work and was headed out the door when the doorbell rang again for the second time, persistently now. He gave me a quick kiss and went to answer the door. Meanwhile, I was still talking animatedly with my parents.

You can just imagine my surprise when Dan came back with a police officer in tow. Ooooopps! The lady officer just wanted to know if I dialled 911 and whether everything was alright. In between embarrassed smiles, I told her I did misdial and apologized for it. Thankfully, she had a nice disposition and said it's not a problem.

Grabeeeeeh!

I didn't realize they would actually come to our house and check our situation. Coming from a country where red tape is the name of the game and the police are notoriously known for arriving last in the scene of the crime, I am amazed at how efficient police officers here are. Imagine, they didn't even know what was wrong or if there really is anything wrong because they didn't speak to me... but they sent an officer just minutes later to make sure that everything is okay. Graveh talaga!

Needless to say, I feel embarrassed and sheepish about the whole thing. I learned my lessons though. First, never try to misdial and second (this one's more important), if you do misdial, don't just hang up on them. I know it's rude to just put the phone down like I did, but I thought I reached an office in the Philippines and was quite surprised to hear a stranger's voice on the line.

I usually don't do this and I don't even know what made me just hang up without even talking to the person on the phone. Silly me, I just wanted to speak to my mom right away and wasn't thinking straight. Oh, well. As I've said, I learned my lessons. And it's really great to know that whatever happens, 911 is just a phone call away!

Happy Thanksgiving!

We will be travelling to Pennsylvania tomorrow to spend Thanksgiving Day with my Dan's family. I'm really looking forward to that since it's always a joy to see them, plus they're all also very excited to see Eowyn! Anyway, this is prolly my last post until we get back on Sunday... and even then, I may not have enough time to update my blog coz we may be off to the Adirondacks next week. Such a hectic schedule, huh?

In the spirit of thanksgiving, I would like to share with you the top 5 things I really am most thankful for:

1. Dan and Eowyn - they are my greatest treasures!
2. A happy marriage - I'd like to think that it was more than just a stroke of luck that I met Dan. It has to be destiny! I'm now blissfully married to the man of my dreams. What more can a girl ask for?
3. My family in the Philippines - They are always supportive, always understanding, and always behind me 100% of the way. Their love has made me what I am today.
4. Dan's family - My mother-in-law is the best ever. Sandy and Don are also very kind to me. Loriann is the sweetest girl there is, and David (even if he's kinda shy) is such a great kid.
5. My friends - You know who you are, guys. Thanks for cheering me up when I need it, for sharing many good laughs and fun moments, and for the wonderful friendship that is sure to last a lifetime.

Happy thanksgiving, everyone!

Lunch With Juls

It's always refreshing to have someone over and eat lunch with, especially if Pinoy food is on the menu! Now more than ever, I really am happy that Juls and I are neighbors. We live just about two blocks away from each other. Having a Pinay friend nearby really makes me feel closer to home.

Anyway, Juls visited Eowyn and me today. As usual, our house is still a mess (when, oh, when shall I ever be done with the unpacking, arranging, and organizing???) but thankfully, Juls doesn't seem to mind. Hehehe. In fact, she made herself very much at home by cooking our lunch. O, di ba? Where will you find a house guest who will do the cooking for you? S'werte ko kay Juls, noh?

Over a lunch of sardines with misua (rice noodles), dried squid which I burnt to a crisp (ooopps!), plain white rice, and a glass of ice-cold Sprite, we talked and gossiped and just had lots of fun... even if Eowyn was quite fussy!

Special mention about the Sprite: before we cooked our lunch, we first went to a nearby store to buy the drinks. We took Eowyn with us, of course, and I was supposed to put her in her new umbrella stroller... but stupid silly mommy that I am, I couldn't open it from its folded position. We ended up just carrying the baby instead, hehehe... all in the name of Sprite and Coke!

It feels absolutely great to have a Pinay friend around. Honestly, Juls is more like a sister to me. Since she and her husband don't have a baby yet and I know Juls likes kids so much, I told her that she can "adopt" Eowyn and she can be "Tita Mommy Juls" ... All in all, it was a wonderful day for me. I'm looking forward to more days like this in the future.

Ugma, Juls, magshopping na sad ta! (^-^)

Back to business...

Our internet connection was off for two days (Sunday and yesterday) but it felt like two whole years for me! By Sunday night, I was already bugging Dan to call the Verizon DSL customer service, and after much whining on my part, he finally did... only to spend about an hour on the phone with a call center agent from India trying to troubleshoot the problem. By the time he hung up, poor Daniel was quite pissed off because the problem still wasn't resolved. The guy did promise us that he'll report it to headquarters and they'll fix it "as soon as possible."

Last night we got our connection back - with limits. Somehow we still couldn't log in to check our emails (yahoo, msn, and gmail servers are down?) but at least I can visit friendster! Yay! Verizon called to tell us that they are still fixing our connection. Hopefully it will be fully restored today! I was afraid na nagka-virus ang computer namin, buti na lang pala hindi kundi patay ako kay honey-labs! Hahaha!

So, I'm back to blogging once again, peeps!

Weather-weather lang 'yan...

I was just reading the blog of my friend Lee and was super envious of the warm weather in Florida! One of the toughest things I had to adjust to here in NY is the cold. I really hate it! If only I have the powers to make summer go on forever and ever.... but this is just wishful thinking!

This week, temperatures in our neck of the woods will be struggling to get out of the 40's. It will be cloudy and damp for the most part and in the higher elevations, there's a good chance of snow showers. And because we live near the Hudson River, mornings get really foggy.

Unbelievably, I do like the fog. There's just something mysterious and surreal about it. When I get up in the morning (and it's usually early, around 6 AM, coz Dan has to leave for work before 7), I love to stare out of our window and just watch the deserted, hazy street.

In the soft glow of the street light, it looks like a picture-perfect setting for the movies. Depending on my mood, I would conjure different scenes. Sometimes I imagine lovers meeting for a secret rendezvous. At times, I scare myself into thinking ghosts and other creatures of the night would suddenly materialize in the darkness. That always gives me the shivers.

And then I would crawl back into bed with Boopy, snuggling under the blankets to keep me warm. Ah, what I'd give to have perpetual summer here in New York! But who am I kidding? The season of skiing and snowflakes is really just around the corner. The next closest corner. Hell, we may even be getting some snow showers very soon!

Leaf Peeping

You'll never appreciate autumn unless you go out and see the leaves: such brilliant colors that transformed the landscape into a painter's palette. And if you allow yourself to forget, you can even trick yourself into believing that these dazzling hues do not prelude the season of death.

Last Saturday, Dan took me leaf peeping across New York and into Vermont and Massachussetts. It was an experience entirely new and fascinating to a tropical girl like me who grew up in a country where the leaves are green all year round. This is my second autumn here, but last year was a lousy fall (it was always raining) and besides, around this time last year, I was already bogged down by morning sickness and all-day nausea due to pregnancy. So in effect, for me, it was like experiencing autumn for the first time all over again.

When we drove along tree-lined streets where leaves have turned a brilliant yellow, I felt like I was in a different universe. The colors are simply amazing. There is a certain glow, an unmistakable aura emanating from nature, that just changes the landscape and gives it a surreal feel.

When I stare from a distance at a tree whose foliage are tinted orange, it was like seeing a tree on fire. I keep expecting to see smoke, and once I thought I did, only to realize it was just fog. Silly old me.

When we passed little streams and brooks on the countryside, I would ask Dan to stop so I can take pictures. Somehow the combination of fall foliage and the rushing water just appeals deeply to me. There is something very serene there, so utterly enticing, that just relaxes me immensely. The fresh scent of the air and the chilly breeze complete the feeling of perfection.

A sign in front of a church that we passed by said that "in autumn, it is hard to tell which is God's favorite color." And I agree. I couldn't decide what color I like best either. Perhaps the deep reds. But the yellows and the oranges come very close too. It's a dazzling array of hues that simply delights my senses in a very peculiar way.

As I was saying, if you just let go and forget for a moment that autumn preludes the season of death (Dan always objects and tells me that things do not die during winter, but there's really not much difference, is there?), you can fool yourself into thinking that the burst of colors is a celebration of life.

Hmmmm.

Perhaps it really is that: it is nature's way of reminding us to put on a beautiful show and enjoy the magnificence of life before we say goodbye. And then maybe death will not be as depressing because of all the beauty you've created and the wonderful memories you've left behind. Naks!

*******

More photos of my leaf peeping escapades HERE.

'Lang Kwenta...

Umuulan. Bored. Walang magawa. Nanonood ng tv si Dan at tulog 'ata si Eowyn. Wala akong maisip na "something interesting" na isulat sa blog ko. Mukhang malamig na malamig sa labas ah. Malakas ang buhos ng ulan. Haaaayyy, Friday... Haaayyy, buhay! I don't make sense, ano?!

Walang kwenta talaga. 'Sensya na!

Picking Apples!

Autumn is well underway now and apple picking season is here again. My closest friend here in NY, Juls, had been planning this outing for weeks now... and finally, we were able to go apple picking last Sunday!

It was a chilly fall afternoon and a few clouds were in the horizon. Dan warned me to bring my jacket, which I dutifully did, but when we arrived at Goold Orchards and stepped out of the car, I thought I could manage the cold. So despite Dan's admonition, I left my jacket in the front seat and held Boopy in my arms.

Boy, I was in for a big surprise.

Within two minutes of being out, I was already shivering. I think the temperature then is in the higher 40's... but loath to admit I was cold and embarrassed to have Dan go back to the car to retrieve my jacket, I bravely endured the chill. Then I noticed Eowyn, who was inside her Moby Wrap, is starting to get cold too so I told Dan I need my jacket. He just gave me his and my poor husband had to go without one while I and the baby stayed toasty as buns the whole time.

Apple picking was fun. There were apple trees in my mom in law's place in Bear Rocks, but the fruits were worm-eaten most of the time. As I surveyed the red delicious, golden delicious and granny smith varieties, I remarked to Dan that these were the most gorgeous apple trees I've ever seen. He laughed at me and said: "That's funny, hon. Hearing you say that is like me telling you that these are the most beautiful coconuts I've seen." Oh well. I guess apple trees are as common here as coconuts are in the Philippines, but to me they are still a novelty.

Juls, Nancy and I were like little kids, picking apples off the trees, sampling them and throwing them away half-eaten while all the while taking pictures! I had so much fun! Our "kodak moments" had Julita's hubby, Dan, remarking that we Filipinas are worse than the Japanese when it comes to "picture-picture." But who cares? Our men gamely tolerated our idiosyncracies, anyway.

After picking apples, we went to the pumpkin patch to look at the, well, pumpkins. More picture taking there although we didn't buy pumpkins. Hahaha! Halloween is almost here and Dan wanted to get a pumkin for carving, but then Eowyn started to fuss and I had to take her back to the car to nurse her. It was already getting late too and Dan wanted to watch the Steelers game so we decided to just call it a day.

And yes, despite the cold, it had been a wonderful autumn day for me. I wanna go apple picking again soon... but what will I do with all the apples? Oh well, there's always next year...

pumpkins for Eowyn

mmmm... apples!

Friday the 13th Chronicles

Don't be misled by the title: this is not a horror story! It actually didn't cross my mind that it was Friday the 13th until Dan called my attention to it. Hmmmm... I am not really superstitious but there's something kinda scary about Friday the 13th falling on halloween month. (Di raw superstitious o! Bakit mukhang takot ka??) Anyway, I just want to share my escapades during that day, so sit back, relax, get comfy in your chair, and read on...

EOWYN'S IMMUNIZATION SHOTS

It was a cold morning as we set out for the doctor's office to have Eowyn's second round of vaccines. I dressed Eowyn in a warm blue and white checkered fall outfit, praying that everything would go well with her shots and she won't be so fussy afterwards. Thankfully, she was in a jovial mood, cooing and playing happily with her hands and rattle.

When we arrived in the clinic, the receptionist immediately confirmed our appointment (no mess ups this time) and asked us to sit in the lounge and wait for our name to be called. It wasn't a long wait at all. In a couple of minutes, our nurse ushered us inside the examination room. She was amazed at how much Eowyn has grown in the past two months, and of course, this mommy was beaming with pride when she told us that Eowyn is such an adorable, beautiful baby!

As usual, the nurse performed the basic stuff: checked Eowyn's height, weighed her, measured her head, got her vital stats. When we stripped Eowyn's clothes to put her on the weighing scale, the nurse was concerned that the baby would cry. She said most babies usually do because it's cold. But again we were in for a pleasant surprise when Eowyn just smiled and behaved all the time. She was such an angel!

When Dr. M finally came in, she explained to us where Eowyn now stands in the growth chart. Weighing 13 lbs, 3 ounces now and measuring 25 inches long, Eowyn is in the 60th percentile - meaning, 60% of babies are smaller and skinnier than her. Not bad. Dr. M further explained that this is actually a good thing. Higher numbers in the growth chart do not necessarily mean that your baby is healthier than the rest. She said what's more important is that your baby is consistent when it comes to her growth chart, and Eowyn has been exactly just that. Her numbers aren't all over the place and she's developing excellently too. In fact, Dr. M was quite impressed that Eowyn can say mama now (most babies her age still can't). She is also a very strong baby and has a very happy, very cheerful demeanor.

The time for Eowyn's shots came. I dressed her in a long-sleeved onesie and put her back on the table again. Eowyn was still smiling happily, oblivious of what is to come. Dr. M and the nurse will each give her two shots on both legs. Surprisingly, I was calmer than I was the first time although I was still quite nervous. Eowyn cried when they stuck the needles on her thigh, but when that was over and I cradled her in my arms, she immediately settled down. Dr. M was again impressed at how quickly she recovered.

I bundled Eowyn up in a warm jacket and pants and we left the clinic soon after: Eowyn a happy camper despite her shots, me feeling relieved, and Dan impatient to start on with other things again.

before leaving home

SAYING GOODBYE TO MALTA

There is something sad, almost painful, about leaving for good our old apartment in Malta. After our appointment with the doctor, we headed straight to Malta Gardens to get the rest of our stuff there. We still had a few boxes of knick-knacks and what nots (a carload of junk, really) and it took us an hour to pack everything and load it in the car.

When we were finally about to leave, a rush of memories overcame me: the first time I arrived in New York and Dan carried me from the door to our bedroom that summer night in July last year, insisting that he should give his bride the traditional "carrying over the threshold" stuff even if we don't really have one; transforming the place from a mess of books, boxes and papers to a happy, comfy home; our first Christmas tree and our first Christmas together; my shout of glee from the bathroom when my pregnancy test came out positive, and nine months later bringing Eowyn home from the hospital; early morning talks and late night conversations; burned food and perfectly cooked meals... aaahhh, there were so many memories there!

I was sobbing in an instant and Dan hugged me. He told me that there is no reason for me to feel sad since the memories are ours to keep forever. I smiled at that. I really am such a moonpie! As we locked the door in our old apartment, I knew that we will be opening a new one, another life full of love, happiness, and exquisite possibilities.

boxes, boxes... everywhere!

FREE CYCLE GALORE!

Look for one near your area at www.freecycle.org --- this is a great site for getting rid of your junk as well as taking tons of FREE stuff that you may need or want for your home. The goodies there are just endless: baby clothes, baby toys/gear, curtains, blankets, sheets, washers/dryers, coffee tables, microwaves, books... you name it, and most likely they'll have it! You won't believe the stuff you'll find there.

Last Friday, I got about 10 pairs of brand new outfits for Eowyn - tags still on! Can you imagine that? The woman who gave it to me said that her daughter outgrew the clothes and doesn't need them anymore. Wow. Another lady also gave me a bag of baby toys and books, all in great condition. It was like I went shopping that day, only I didn't spend a single dime at all.

Just a note about free cycle though: if you join the group, it would be great to also offer something you no longer need such as maybe some room decors you don't like anymore, or toys your baby no longer wants, or anything that somebody else can use but you no longer have a need for. Don't just take and take. Give something back too!

A friend of Dan's told us about the website last year but at first I was skeptical about it. I didn't really look it up until two months ago and my, oh, my! I was very surprised at what people here give away. One man's junk can be somebody else's treasure, plus it's a great way of saving the landfill too. So Free Cycle away, folks!

not all of these are from Free Cycle, btw

FREAKY FRIDAY WEATHER

From where we are in Upstate New York, you wouldn't have a clue that a freak snowstorm was brewing on the western side of the state. It was a nice, lovely, sunny day here (though a little chilly) so I was shocked when I saw on the afternoon news that two feet of snow had fallen in Buffalo! Geez. It was a weird thing seeing all the broken branches still with green leaves lying on the ground all covered with snow. I really dread the coming of winter, but I'm resigned now to the inevitability of the thing. Already I am looking forward with much anticipation to the coming of spring. It just sucks, coz spring is still six months away!

Moving!

We finally moved to our new place last Friday - and whew, what a lot of work that was (and still is, actually.) I had no idea we had so much stuff until we started packing things and loaded the truck.

Moving was made even more difficult with a little baby who wanted my attention all the time. It was so stressful, and I kinda wish I had my family (like the whole clan) over to help me with the packing - and unpacking!

That's one thing I miss about the Philippines - people are always there if you need them. I don't have that luxury here anymore, although some of our friends did help us out with the moving.

There are still tons of boxes that need to be unpacked but I'm just taking a break now.... Ahhhh... I don't even wanna think about it!

Things I Miss About Diliman

S'yempre miss ko na lahat ng friends ko nu'ng college, pero ito 'yung mga bagay-bagay na na-miss ko talaga:

• Lamig ng simoy ng hangin sa campus t'wing magpapasko
• Tambay sa right wing ng main lib (tambayan po ng Iso Dabaw)
• Isaw sa tapat ng Kalayaan at Ilang-ilang
• Kwek-kwek, squid balls at "kikiam" sa may NCPAG
• Barbeque at itlog na maalat sa beach house
• UP Fair at tambay magdamag sa Sunken Garden
• blueberry cheesecake at iced tea sa Chocolate Kiss
• putok at egg sandwich ni Ate Melba (sa Molave), sabay inom ng ice-cold coke o sprite
• lakad-lakad sa acad oval pag may bagyo (weird?)
• ikot at toki
• inter-dorm sports meet para mag-cheer sa players ng Molave
• open house sa dorm (kahit na anong dorm, come to think of it!)
• si Roboguard (bwahahaha... bomba o bala???)
• "shopping" sa coop at SC
• palakpakan sa dining room ng Molave t'wing may nahuhulog na tinidor/kutsara
• puyat at cramming pag may exams (di ko akalain nakaka-miss rin pala 'to!)
• quick lunch sa CASAA in between classes
• Lucky Me pancit canton at tasty (staple food lalo na pag wala na 'kong pera!)
• sine at month-long passes sa Film Center
• nood ng star awards and other showbiz events sa UP Theater
• cutting classes pag tinatamad o trip lang (kaya nagkaleche-leche 'yung ibang grades ko!)
• last full show sa SM North kasama ang barkada (favorite pastime pag weekend)

Suffering from an unusual attack of homesickness kaya 'eto ang resulta. 'Sensya na po!

miss ko na rin si Oble!

Chilly days are here again...

So, summer's officially over last weekend. I've said this over and over and over again, but I'll say it one more time: I dread the coming of winter!

I wish I can share my friend Kareff's enthusiasm about the "changing of the seasons." Sure, autumn is nice enough. I do still experience wonder at the sight of leaves turning deep reds, fiery oranges, and brilliant yellows... but my feelings are dampened by the thought that winter is just around the corner.

Yesterday I was happy because it felt almost like a summer day! The sun was out, birds were singing, and most of the foliage are still green if I just ignore the tell-tale hints of fall colors. I took Eowyn out for a walk because she was very fussy, and she immediately calmed down as soon as we stepped out of the front door. I guess she loved the warm sunshine and the fresh breeze on her face.

But last night... oh, last night our temperatures dipped to 40 degrees F ( 4 degrees celcius). Bbbbbrrrr! Despite our flannel sheets and two blankets, it was still chilly! There was a slight frost advisory in our area, which made Dan shake his head and comment "Maybe that's why it's taking forever for our toma