School Boy

The Tatapilla has no day off from “school” this holiday season as Mummy still goes to work. But I think, he is having a great time in school as he learns something new everyday. The most recent is saying ‘STOP’ with action. And he always has presents for us at the end of the day – his drawings.

I think he is in the word spurt stage. He just hears the word once and he can repeat it right away. Oh, I’m a very proud Mum. Can you imagine him saying “blue berry”? He can’t say it audibly but it sound like it is. You know, Mums can understand gibberish words from their kids.

I wonder what’s going on in his mind, really! I wish there is a machine that can determine what the kids are thinking. Anyway, with his little time off “school”, we might be able to manage to go for a swim, buy his latest fad – steering wheel or car, go to the zoo or just kick the ball in the backyard or go for a walk or ride his bike. It’s not as grand as Vegas vacations, but it sure will spark his day.

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"Driving" Drama

Since the drama last Sunday and the repeat this morning when we left the house, I’ve been looking up the net for toy steering wheel and car toys. So far, I saw these.

This one looks very cook but I don’t think it is safe as it doesn’t have a harness to hold the rider in place. Although the description says, it’s for 1 – 3 years, I reckon it should be recommended to older kids. The rider also needs to have long legs in order to push and get moving which my little boy lacks. He needs to grow his legs.

This one looks like what we could buy for him. The product description says, it has pedals to move. I hope that’s how I understand it because the other toys of their types have a foot to floor specifications.

I haven’t seen any toy steering wheel that can be attached to the car seat. With his fascination with driving, it’s a catch 22 if we’re just going to buy one or the other. It should be both as we need the toy steering wheel when we’re in the car and the toy car when he is out of the car and at home – a lure for him to get out of the car.

Grrrr, all this hassle buzzle of catering to your child’s fancy. Only if he’ll take fancy in bathroom lighting as he loves having a bath. :)

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A Gift Well Appreciated

We’ve bought Jens lots of gifts and we are happy that he likes them. He enjoyed playing with them – bikes, balls, blocks, mini-trucks, books, etc. But this Christmas we found this amazing toy and the price is right even it’s not on sale. Even buy.com carry this item in their product range.
I know this type of toy exist as the daughter of my friend back in RP owns one of a little size. I saw them in the side walk in Santa Cruz but I don’t know that Fisher Price have it. I’ve actually bought Jens a colouring book and pen – which I didn’t give to him when we found the Doodle Pro.

The minute he opened the present, he didn’t play with the box or wrapper like he used to do with his other toys. He wanted to draw and use the stencils right away. He loves drawing – they do lots of drawings in “school”.

This toy is also environment-friendly. No paper, no pencil, no mess.

He loves it as much as his books.

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To Everyone!

Merry Christmas! Ho, ho, ho!

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Jens' Christmas Party

We were looking forward to it. Funny thing was, I was so late in coming home (typical if I hold an administrative careers, but NOT!) so when we get to the centre everyone was already having fun and Santa Claus had already been to Jens' room.

Anyway, the Director noticed us waiting for Jens' turn to receive a gift from Santa so hurriedly took Jens' gift from his room and gave it to Santa. Jens was a bit scared. Obviously, he has not taken a liking to Santa yet.

We also received a gift from Jens. His masterpieces - artworks and drawings he made in "school" (forgot to take photos).

We had snowcomes, which he loved even if he had a bit of cold.

Also tried, the sideshow ally. The staff was so surprised that he knew when he was told to put the ball in the mouth of the clown.
We were lucky to be the last to get a poodle balloon. It was 8PM already.

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Fruit Aplenty

We were in buying frenzy of stone fruit last week. Yellow peach, lychee, grapes, cherries, nectarines, etc. And we can't eat them all. Today, I found out that some of the fruit are starting to rot, some are over-ripe. The over-ripe ones are here beside me, waiting for my TLC. The grapes in the fridge are starting to loose their beauty as well. Need to have more mouth to feast on them.

It's a shame that the little boy is ill and can't eat some of the fruit.

These bananas are starting to get overripe too. They're now really good for banana cake but I can only bake on weekends. If they don't get to be eaten, they'll be in the fridge until weekend, I suppose.

Looks like a detox diet for us, not using the Lipovox though.

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Teething

This past weekend is the worst night we ever had since The Tatapilla was born. Some parents complain or shall we say, share that they have problems when their baby is a few months old. We can't say the same for Jens as he is generally a happy baby. He didn't get sick until he is one year old either. And Sunday night was the worst.

He is cutting his first molars - both up and down on the right side. He can't eat anything lumpy and solid. Can't even breastfeed. It's so distressing. He whinged but not all the time. He still laughed and make fun of himself. But he can't sleep on his own. I usually nurse him but since he can't have "moo cows" he can't have a shut eye.

Around 10:30 at night, we strapped him in his pram and took a walk to end of the road. It was fairly a long walk - more than a kilometer return. He went to sleep on the way back, without drama.

I was lost on what to give him. He ate custard though and some nibblies. Mcj suggested to put lemon juice on his water and I'm thankful, I didn't. Found this out in cyh.com:

Do not use lemon juice on your baby's gums. Lemon juice has a lot of acid and can harm new teeth by dissolving the tooth enamel.

We just put teething gel and gave him paracetamol and they always help.

Last night was a pleasant one. He had his afternoon nap late and woke-up 7pm. I was so sleepy by 10pm and he wasn't. He was so restless and doesn't want me to turn the light off. I can't remember what happened after I gave him paracetamol.

I just hope tonight will be different - pleasantly different. I rang the centre and I can't get through so I'll give them a couple of minutes. For now, have to check what's the fuss all about on las vegas nv.

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Not So Happy Chappy

The Tatapilla has been pretty sick Friday. He was coughing and running a temperature. By Saturday, he was not eating much. Very unusual of him who loves food. Thanks to Vaalia, he had filled his tummy.

He only eats custard/yogurt and drink water. Anything with flavour especially sweet, turns him off. Good thing though, he loves his medication and kept asking for "more, more".

He had lost a bit of weight already. So this is the moment when the extra fat and bulging belly come in handy. At least he has a buffer.

Hopefully, he'll be over it soon.

The doc recommended to give him some probiotic after he finishes his anti-biotic. It'll flash out whatever remains in his tummy (we don't need the Orovo detox for him).

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Torch Fettish

We haven't really thought what to give to our Tatapilla. I'm sure they will just be toys, but what, we don't know. I think we'll just play it by the eyes. What I mean, we'll buy what we see he likes and fit his age.

Just like this one.

We dashed to the supermarket last night just to pick up custard and yogurt. Then we saw this on the floor. I thought, it's a microphone toy until Mcj pressed the yellow button. And it looks like this.

I reckon, it's really fancy. Another addition to our collection of torch which The Tatapilla loves.

For now, little pleasures such as this works until the time he would ask Seiko watches.

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A Busy Boy

The little boy is coping very well with the family's busy schedule - as long as there is food. Just like us, he loves having fun and eating. Just have a look at the following snaps and you'll see that the big fat belly runs in the family. :) We're not in the point of needing a diet pill yet. But as long as he's active and happy, we are all happy.

These are what we've been up to this last weekend. Pretty busy, eh!

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"School" Christmas Party

I fished out an invitation letter from Jens' file in school for the Christmas Party, Wednesday next week. Seems there will be loads of fun - sausage sizzle, side show ally, face painting, etc. Each family should bring a plate to share. That, got me thinking. Worried is the right word.

I've been looking up the net, high and low, for food ideas on such occasions and I haven't any yet. It's not really what we can take with us that is the problem. It's the time. I can construct anything if I have more time on my plate to play with. I just don't. It being on the middle of the week and I will be working that day. We won't be settled in properly in the new office so I am expecting to give a hand on some work and a be a little late for home.

Hah!

Mcj and I talked just a while ago - at least we have a couple of ideas. Cheese and crackers or a bowl of salad. I first thought of cake - but we dismiss the idea as there will be lots of kids and some parents don't allow their kids to have loads of sugar.

And with my search, I found this awesome website that will be very handy for a busy Mum like me. How fitting it is that the website is actually busymothers.com.au? Sites such as this, is very helpful for busy Mums like me. You can find anything - food ideas, recipes, family, raising kids, etc. And what's more? It being a forum, for some (I read a bit) it feels like having a sounding board while staying at home or when you're just being busy. If I dug deeper, I could have found a small business for sale.

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A Pleasant Goodbye

We dropped Jens to daycare later than usual today. I'm working from home, so we were not cramming this morning. Plus, we want to go when the bank and the post office are already open so we can kill three birds in one go.

The other kids where playing outdoors, in the sandpit and riding some toys when we get to "school". I took him there and he sat on a big car instantaneously. We then left without any drama. He was waving and all, as well as the other kids. Now, that's the goodbye I want everytime I dropped him off there. No fuss. Not that, I don't like Jens missing us but it feels good when you know that he is happy there. No guilt feelings.

My friend back in the RP quit her work because she wants to spend more time with her kids and I think for the reason that her kids are getting much closer to their nanny than to her. I don't have that worry with Jens staying in daycare. If there's any at all, it's the thought that he's picking up bad habits from other kids. Yet, there are more good points on the other side of the coin. He is more closer to us now and able to communicate clearly. He is more sociable and knows lots of tricks to amuse us.

Life is pleasant after all. It works itself out eventually.

Have to end this blabbering - have to do some serious work and maybe get life insurance quotes, for whom? Ahh, anybody.

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Another Credit Card Coming

Last week, I received a mail from my bank. I thought it was my bank statement but it was a credit card offer – low interest rate as well as annual charge. It sparked my interest for a couple of minutes and then it wane. It would be better if it was a pre-approved credit card. But how would they give me as such as they don’t have bases. Yeah, it’s a combo account and my salary goes into that account. Yet, it doesn’t stay there. I just let my account have a feel of it for a day; if it gets lucky then I transfer it to a savings maximiser account.

I haven’t disposed the form yet. I suppose, if I apply for it I would be at the lowest of the credit card ranks, I am not sure. I haven’t got a credit history under my name here in Oz. The credit card that I am using is an extension of Mcj. Pretty neat, I don’t have to worry when the due date of the bills is.

And today, we dashed to the bank to apply for an extension of Mcj's mastercard credit card. I only have amex now and some shops don't accept that so I have to "force" him to sign my cheque. :) I'll have th new card in 17 days time, just in time of chrissy shopping, eh!

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First Time

...bus ride and go shopping without Daddy.

I was really itching to go out yesterday to where ever but Mcj had something important to do at home. I don’t want to be stuck at home so after doing some housework, I packed up Jens’ stuff and set to hit the shops.

We’ve never done it before but I have researched on how we can get to the shop. Take the bus. Mcj volunteered to pick-up us when we’re ready to go home. We just have to worry how to get there. Jens and I hiked up to the end of the road and waited for the bus. There was no bus stop but we can just hail the driver. On weekends, there are buses every 30 minutes.

We waited for about 15 or so minutes. Jens was so amazed with all the vehicles that come and go while we were on the side of the street. As a first time to ride a bus, it got into him. He was cuddling me real tight and a bit whiney but not too bad that was not remedied by pointing things to him.

I didn’t take the pram with us – as it is almost as heavy as Jens. We used a shopping trolley instead and it was very handy. I brought a big cushiony blanket for when Jens goes to sleep and he did. It was fun shopping with him as he wants to climb on every rack and touch every item.

Mummy was able to shop around really good when he went to sleep. I bought a bag for myself, Jens’ bag, a pair of thongs, a wallet, 2 pants, good quality umbrella, and some stuff for the house (no notebook computer). Mind you, I was able to fit the pants. The sales attendant allowed us to use the disable fitting room because Jens had a bit of a whinge when he can’t see me so he went in with me. Isn’t that a pip?

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Chomp, chomp

Jens loves to eat. Anything will do. He wants to eat every time someone’s eating. And, I am really doing my best to give him variety. But you can only offer him too much.

He can eat adult food now but as much as possible, I cook him a separate meal because I don’t want to expose him to salt and other spices that we are using for our food. We could change the taste of our food but well, we also want to eat appetising meals.

I’ve been searching the net, thanks to it, and found some. And they really help.

But if all else are not possible, he can always settle to fruit. My mother-in-law said, I’m turning him into a fruitarian especially on weekends that there’s fruit in the fridge that needs using. He’ll have fruit all day. And I really want him to love fruit that it will be part of his diet until whenever.

One thing that I want to do is go to a shop that specialises on kids foods. Is there something like that? I think, shopping for Sony Vaio is easier than finding that type of store.

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Recent Snaps

I'm a fastfood junkie.

Jens loves the cubby house

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Titssue

That’s Bubby talk for tissue. As far as my memory can tell me, this is the first word that has more that one syllable that Jens was able to say the word. He blabbers and talks gibberish for months now but mostly monosyllabic words. Then, out of the blue, he pointed to a box of tissue beside his car seat and said, TITSSUE. Boy, I’m so happy! You see, tissue is not a common word. But, I guess it retained in his mind because we’re constantly using it to wipe his face, cleaning up his mess, etc. We have more or less 5 opened boxes of tissues all over the house. It pays to be ready when emergency comes.

He can say these words now:

Dah – Daddy
Mama – Mummy
Ta – His first ever good manner. He says this when you give him something and would tell you to say it when he gives you something, also.
Mo – more
Mo mo – no more
Moon - (sometimes it sound like moo)
Star - coupled with peter pointer finger to the star up in the sky or to a picture
Soes – that’s for shoes. Right after he woke up, he would want me or his Dah to put his shoes on.
Cat or Cky – short for Lucky.
NO – with vigorous shaking of the head.
Ba - bath
Sssa – outside
Bo - boat
da - duck
and more...

It’s funny how Mums can understand words or non-words at all that babies say and make out anything from it.

Though, I’m tired from work when I get home sometimes (it feels like I have one of those who have jobs in retail – standing all day), I perked-up seeing Dah and Bub at the train station waiting for me with big smiles on their faces.

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First Plane Ticket

The Tatapilla's first plane ticket. I just hope he's excited about our upcoming holiday. Or does he now knows what excited means? :)

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In the Night Garden

We teach him young, to be fanatic, that is. In a nice way, of course. Well, that’s how we see it.
It just used to be watching television baby or kids show in the morning when we want to do it. I use not to like that program because the names of the characters are so out of this world – no meaning, long and I thought they are not easy to have off pat for a young mind. But the jingles are catchy and the characters are funny. They don’t talk much. Somebody narrates in the entire show.

Soon, it became a morning ritual. It had been a part of our schedule. And when our schedule got so busy, we recorded it so The Tatapilla can watch it anytime he wants. He doesn’t mind watching the same episode over and over again.

Then, Daddy and Mummy found themselves looking for a CD/DVD at the shops. When Daddy saw one Mum gave her kid a stuffed character for the kid’s birthday, it was added to the family’s shopping list. It wasn’t in the purpose for going shopping but the family found themselves in the toy section brainstorming which character of the show they’re going to buy.
We’ve have just bought a whole set of summer clothes for the Little Boy two weeks ago but seeing the jammies set with the "In the night garden" characters, the attraction was so strong to ignore. We bought a pair.

Now, The Tatapilla loves Iggle Piggle. He gave the toy cuddles. It is not his favourite toy, his bike is but he gets big giggles and smiles when Iggle Piggle makes sounds when pressed on the belly which isn’t as big as The Tatapilla’s (doesn’t need diet supplement at all).

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Weekend Treats

“It’s funny how some things don’t work.”

“It’s funny when it does.”

I love this conversation between Lorlene and Melanie in the movie, Sweet Home Alabama. I really love this movie. I’ve seen it for the nth times and I still feel the same intensity of emotion from the first time is saw it. It tugs my heart just thinking about it. Funny thing is, I can’t explain what it is.

I also love watching Two Weeks Notice. Most people that I know (well, those who are willing to give their opinions) don’t like Hugh Grant. I feel the same way sometimes. It seems to me he’s on top of his roles. But in this movie, I like him.. and then there’s Notting Hill, About a Boy, etc. That’s the woman talking who doesn’t like Hugh. I love Hugh. Jackman.

You’ve Got Mail. Old movie. Could bore you. Terrific actors. Light. Casual. Feel good. We love this.

The Devil Wears Prada. Love the dresses, the shoes, the actors. I like the ending.

That’s it for now. I can’t remember some of my collections. But I love watching them even if we don’t have tv lifts.

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Say Boo!

Halloween for me is when we go the cemetery, clean the tomb, pray for the souls of our departed loved ones – my mother would also say novenas for all our relatives’ house that live close by. It’s also the time when we cook our native delicacies, most are sweets. We would visit the rellies house and share with their prepared food. It’s like a celebration of the living and the dead. Some would light candles in sconce or outside the door of the house.

I miss those things.

Halloween is not big in Down Under. There might be people who celebrate it but not big enough for me to hear about it.

I might observe it spiritually. And we might be able to come up something worthwhile for the family to do. Mcj commented on Jens’ shirt this morning which has a skull and cross-bone print on it that should be worn on Halloween. I told him that Jens got another shirt with the same print. Any how, the Halloween will go by without us celebrating it. :)

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A Barbie

My sister-and-brother-in-laws are really nice. They threw a belated birthday party for Mcj. How nice is that?

They were away on Mcj’s happy today so we had the party last Sunday. It was a barbie at their backyard.


The weather was nice. Not hot. Cool. We didn’t expect it and I dressed lightly. The place was close to the beach and a cool breeze was blowing in. Good on Jens, I packed him a couple of extra clothes so I dressed him in layers.

We dashed to the beach on the way home. It’s been a while since we went close to the ocean waters. I think, that was back January this year. That was eons ago. :)

We played at the park, also. Jens had a good time.


And what’s really nice? The food. Snags. Grilled rissoles. Stir-fry veggies. Green salad. Cakes. Yummy! I ate so much. Not so much that I would need alli, though; enough that I didn’t have any dinner at all.

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Some Free Things

I am missing the freebies that I used to receive. Remember those boxes of make-ups? Not to mention some promotional products for Jens to try on? I don’t receive any of them anymore.

Why?

Because I’ve been so busy that when I get the change to be online, there would only be enough time to do some blogging (most were for paid posts), update my friends through friendster, check emails, a little shopping and searching for this and that. Important this and that, if I might add.

I love those freebies that though I can do without them, they’re too nice to pass on. I might just be more organised when I am online so I can also spend time in requesting those freebies and answering surveys.

Well, that’s just a plan.

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Mercury Rising

The mercury is rising in our side of the world. Days are longer also. Summer is just around the corner. And what better way it is to spend summer than on the beach or pool?
That's the most that we did at the beach.

Busy, busy, busy. One of these days. For now, I am just aiming of buying Jens a big outdoor bath tub. Mcj suggested once to buy inflatable pool instead. I am not really keen on that. It’s too much hard work just to put it up plus needs more water to use it. Unlike a plastic bath tub, you can just stash it away and grab it anytime. No more planning or needing a hand to set it up.

What do we really need? Togs for Mum and Dad. I’ll pass on the sexy swimwear for now. I’ll settle for shorts and singlets. :)

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Pinas Here We Come... Not Soon Though

At long last, we were able to finalise our long awaited Philippine holiday. We’ve booked the flights last Sunday. We have accumulated enough frequent flyer points that the family’s return airfares were free. We only paid for the taxes and charges which by the way had gone up to $300+. The previous time I checked it was just a wee bit over $250.

It is a three-week holiday with the main purpose of acquainting Jens to my family. I don’t really know what’s going on in Jens’ mind now let alone by then but I just hope that he’ll have a good memory of his cousins. We might celebrate Jens party there in advance just as what we have planned this year should it had been pushed thru.

It will not be as glamorous as Brazil vacation packages but it will surely be fun.

To dos: enjoy with the family, go to the beach, shopping, eating, going out, eating, etc... I just hope we'll fit everything that we planned to do.

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What's The Latest?

The Tatapilla's defiant nature is slowly crawling to the surface. When you tell him off, he'll give you a cheek.

When he got something that you don't want him to have, he'll run away if you're coming towards him to take it.

When he wants to do something that you don't want him to... the last resort is take him away from it, he'll arch his back and throw his head back.

He says TA! when you give him something and he will want you to say TA! when he gives you something

He knows how to share his food, toys, and anything.

He now knows how to ride his bike properly.

He is very sweet. Gives everybody that he knows cuddles.

Waves to anybody.

Oh, loves to eat. Big appetite!

Remembers routines and enforcing it when I forgot. He's got a sharp memory stick.

And many more.. but the best of all?

Still breast feeding. Bwahaha!

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I Want to Drive Too!

Jens is really funny! And a big copy-cat. On our way home from the shop, Mcj let me drove from the gate to the house. Then, we gave Jens the car key as soon as we got off the car as he wanted it.

Do you know what he did? He didn’t want to leave the car and then kept on pointing the key to the car to unlock it with a matching motion of climbing onto it. He also wanted to drive. Can you imagine that? I reckon, he’s really quick on the uptake.

On the other side of the car, my instructor said that I had a big improvement with my driving. We mainly practice on my speed control, accelerator use, steering and a little of hand-eyes-and-feet coordination. But I just moved up an inch in the turning department. I need more practice especially in tight corners or I’ll hit the gutter or some exit sign.

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Holiday Plans

Seems our plan of a holiday back home is getting clearer. We haven't booked our tickets yet but at least we have a plan. If all goes well, we might push through. But it's still too far in the future.

But we really need to go to the Philippines before Jens turns two so he will have a free airfare. That's the biggest motivation why we're flying back home. :)

So again, Mummy has to do some research again. Anybody who knows somebody who rent a car in Bacolod, please leave me a message. We would appeciate it. It's one of our big stumbling block, transportation aside from booking a decent hotel with a decent price (wonder if there is a a vegas hotel like that). Now that we have a little boy in tow, comfort ranks first.

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Anything with Eggs

Been thinking of making leche flan. Well, just been thinking. I will come to it one day. Meantime, found one of the egg nog recipes in foodnetwork.com:

Ingredients
4 egg yolks
1/3 cup sugar, plus 1 tablespoon
1 pint whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
3 ounces bourbon
1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
4 egg whites*
Directions
In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the egg yolks until they lighten in color. Gradually add the 1/3 cup sugar and continue to beat until it is completely dissolved. Add the milk, cream, bourbon and nutmeg and stir to combine.

Place the egg whites in the bowl of a stand mixer and beat to soft peaks. With the mixer still running gradually add the 1 tablespoon of sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.

Whisk the egg whites into the mixture. Chill and serve.

Cook's Note: For cooked eggnog, follow procedure below.

In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the egg yolks until they lighten in color. Gradually add the 1/3 cup sugar and continue to beat until it is completely dissolved. Set aside.

In a medium saucepan, over high heat, combine the milk, heavy cream and nutmeg and bring just to a boil, stirring occasionally. Remove from the heat and gradually temper the hot mixture into the egg and sugar mixture. Then return everything to the pot and cook until the mixture reaches 160 degrees F. Remove from the heat, stir in the bourbon, pour into a medium mixing bowl, and set in the refrigerator to chill.

In a medium mixing bowl, beat the egg whites to soft peaks. With the mixer running gradually add the 1 tablespoon of sugar and beat until stiff peaks form. Whisk the egg whites into the chilled mixture.

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Biking

Jens had figured out how to ride his bike just by himself. We used to push him around. He doesn't like pushing forward though because the horn and key in his front was hurting his belly and the tires at the back were catching the back of his feet. Moving backward was better.

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The Crowd

You know what? I've been hearing and seeing in the news that Australia is one of the fatest country in the world - I mean the poeple. But frankly, I don't agree with it. I'm out and about on weekdays and I've never seen those people that were described as obese. Maybe, its in the geography? People living in the hussle buzzle lifestyle area are more fit than those living in laidback town, I reckon. I haven't seen enough of people of Brisbane yet so I can't really tell. It could be that I am moving around a circle of healthy people? I am not sure. One thing I'm sure though is, to suggest to people who want to lose weight to check the CLA - Conjugated Linoleic Acid. It might be help to them.

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Family Friendly?

The idea of going for cruises is fantastic especially if the tour is around Europe - in the romantic cities. I fancy myself going to one. Until I read in a magazine article more than two years ago of a take of a newly-wed couple who spent their honeymoon on a cruise and the wife woke-up one morning to find out her husband missing. The gist of the story is they were at the bar and it was getting late so the wife begged off to go to bed early. The last person who saw the husband was the cabin crew and claimed that he escorted the husband to their room. The wife was not aware of that happening. The husband had just gone missing.

It was said that 5% of people going on cruises has never come back. I got scared of the fact. It's a very small chance but it curtailed my desire for such romantic and faboulus holiday idea. Well, I just need more convincing maybe. My mind isn't close to that option. Mcj had gone for an Asia Pacific cruise in his teens and he said it was fun. Maybe, I'll change my mind in the future when such type of holiday is in our priority.

And the important question to ask for booking a holiday is, is the place family friendly? Seldom you can find a child-friendly cruise liner, I reckon.

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Candle Light :)

I have a friend who loves candles. We used to be roomies and she would always light candles when she came into the room. They were scented (some might have been tea light candles) and really, it changed the atmosphere. It was a routine for her already.

Anyway, I tried to do it myself. I didn’t buy the candles though. They were gifts. I have so much of them but I only get to use one twice. I don’t know. I’m not just a candle person. Maybe because I was just used to the idea that we only lit candles on Halloween or when doing novenas. And then there’s this thought nagging at the back of my mind that I might fall asleep and the candles will run out and burn the house. Seen so much news about a fire starting from candles while having a bath, that’s why.

In short, I really didn’t catch her fancy.

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Looking Back

Jens was born three days overdue. And literally he was overcooked. The skin on his legs and feet and even his soles then were very dry. From then we didn’t use soap for his bath and shower. Just oil. He had used soap twice only. Then, Daddy bought some cream recommended by the chemist for baby’s skin. I finished using it before winter this year and only then did I read the fine print. I found out that it was not a leave-on cream rather you have to rinse your skin after applying it. Huh! Lucky, Jens didn’t develop any rash (or worst acne) while he was using it. And it kept Jens’ skin moisturised.

Anyway, winter made Jens’ skin dry also. And of course, we didn’t buy the same cream. I looked at the chemist for other brands but nothing caught my picky taste. I started using the J&J lotion that was given to us – the pink variant but it didn’t moisturise his skin. Then I saw a J&J essential – green variant at the supermarket and decided to give it a go. And it is a success. Nice smell too!

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Security

And you think, it could be something like pillow, blanket, stuffed toy or anything that you can cuddle. It’s another story for Jens. Finally, I can say that Jens has a security thing though, he is not really looking for it before going to it. It is just something nice to have for him. What is it? A spoon!

If he’s at home, you can see him holding a spoon while playing around especially after eating. It just started actually when he learned how to feed himself. I think, it’s just his way of connecting to something that feed his mouth.

Look at this big guy! He doesn’t like the feel of grass on his bare feet hence he put his feet up his bike and even tried to climb. He’s alright to play around on his feet when in concrete like carports, patio, etc.
See that toothbrush he's holding? That's another interesting toy.

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Fill in's Tag

Thanks, Eds for this.

My roommates and I once: shared a wonderful life together. I miss 'em!

Never in my life have I: taken drugs or tried diet pills.

High school was: just a memory though I miss my friends from back then.

when I’m nervous: I get heart bumps and get quiet!

My hair: is very long - way past my waist now.

When I was 5: I was a bitch. I don't want to lend my clothes to our visitor. :)

When I turn my head left: I see the other computer.

I should be: watching telly now but nothing nice on.

By this time next year: the Tatapilla would be 28 months old - big boy!

My favorite aunt is: still single.

I have a hard time understanding: something that I don't know. :)

You know I like you if: I'm warm towards you.

My ideal breakfast is: tuyo at sinangag. I miss it!

If you visit my home town: you won't see me there. Bwahaha! I miss home.

If you spend the night at my house: when? Ring me first so I can prepare. :D

The animal I would like to see flying besides birds: Caterpillar.

I shouldn’t have been: eating lots of chocolates.

Last night I: was so tired.

A better name for me would be: Ms. Something!

I’ve been told I look like: My Dad - by Mcj.

If I could have any car, it would be: Holden Astra - Australian brand for petite people like me.

I had fun!

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Toys and Games

Things I love to play with other than my toys – shoes, books, Mummy’s glasses, phones (wireless and mobile), meds droppers, brush (hairbrush, toothbrush, etc.), bundles of keys, spoons, hats, water bottles, lotion container, lollies container (of course, especially if I can open it and get a handful) and most of all 'motes - you know remotes? He's always sneaking out just to get hold of the remotes. My keyboard is wireless and he likes it, it's a big 'mote for him. He hasn't seen my laptop yet, but I reckon if he did, it will be a batttle of wills as he won't give it up.

Now, he loves playing his ball - bouncing, rolling and throwing. I also notice that he likes putting things away. He might be some sort of a cleaner or an organised person in his previous life. :)

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Looking?

I was able to watch some current affairs on the telly last night while Jens was playing in the lounge after dinner. Something got me say Hmmmm and chew my bottom lip.

A 50-ish couple was out of the job at the same time. It was sort of redundancy. They thought, it would only take them a couple of get another job but hey, they’ve been hunting for more than 5 weeks now. They deduce the reason why nobody wants to hire them was their age. Is it really true that nobody wants to hire experienced and qualified employees?

Some expert said that while in the city employers are on the look for experienced employees, it’s another case in the country side. I reckon, so true! And I think most vacancies in the country are retail jobs, care givers, and skilled workers.

I’m thankful I found my niche early.

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Adrenalin Junkie

This is why I love going to the shops – apart from the treats, of course. This is where Mummy’s coins go. This is why Daddy goes ahead of Mummy out the checkout – so I can have a ride while Mummy pays. This is why I don’t want Mummy and Daddy to hold my hands while walking in the shops – so I can run away, come back and climb up the rides again.

Only if I can say what I really want. I would always tell Mummy and Daddy to go to the shop so I can go on the rides. I don’t really mind if it is Thomas, Wiggles car or aeroplane or whatever. A ride is a ride for me.

Hey, what are futures trading? :)

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Father's Day

It was father's day here in the Land Down Under yesterday - Happy Father's Day to all! Been wondering what I can give to Mcj. Then I thought if what he likes. Coffee comes to mind. Planned on looking up the net for some espresso machines.

Then when we were at the shop, we parted ways to save time. We were supposed to look for Jens' favourite show DVD and then Dadda said. Mum, it's Daddy's day tomorrow and I know what I want or something like that.

Well, this is what he wants. He missed his stereo. So there you go, I didn't sweat up anymore. :)

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Big On What?

This week I received this pretty catalogue in the mail. My second. As much as I love shopping – at home or going to the shop, I still fail not to notice and feel sorry for all the money spent in making catalogues and brochures such as this.

Look! This is really pretty. Glossy and colourful and in thick and hard paper. But wait till you see the magazine for modern furniture that I received a few months ago. It might be a strategic marketing campaign for these companies but for me, it’s just wasting money with abandon. Some of these don’t actually end up inside the mailboxes but littered in the street.

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Securing the Future

Mcj was supposed to have his dental surgery last month but he was ill then so it was postponed. He’s been waiting long enough for it - the anaesthesiologist was on holiday for 5 weeks and the dentist that he wants to attend to him was fully booked. And then, when it was his time to go under the knife he had a flu. Now, that’s what I call, what? Not his time? Maybe.

You know what’s funny about it? A week before the scheduled surgery, he hastily arranged that my name will appear as beneficiary of his life insurance – he didn’t include the Tatapilla yet as he’s still a minor so I would still be his guardian. He didn’t trust the stipulation in the fine prints of the policy that the wife would be the beneficiary then.

Talking of insurance, I don’t have life insurance here in OZ. Maybe, now that I have superannuation, I might get a life insurance quote in the same company. Mcj has his life insurance from the same company with his superannuation. Now, I have some research to do.

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It's Bath Time

The week before last, the Tatapilla had an outdoor bath. Now, I’m reminded to buy him a big bath. I just used a small basin that he can only sit on. It was a tad chilly that morning plus he was not over with his flu yet, he loved the bath. It was the first time that I used some of the bath soap that was given to him to make him a bubble bath. I normally use his bath oil. I also gave him all his floating toys and he had fun splashing. But, I reckon it was the cause why his nose was dripping non-stop that weekend. Bad Mummy, bad.

He loves water. Might it be in the bath, flowing out of a tap (might be more attractive if flowing out of Grohe faucets), or just a puddle on the ground. Now that winter is over, we might plan a trip to the pool or to the beach again.

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Cuppa?

Mcj is really big on coffee. It needs two mugs to completely wake and perk him up in the morning.

I notice though that Aussies are big on cuppa, tea or coffee. Visitors are more likely to be offered with hot drinks. Though restaurants and fast foods are not that proliferating in OZLand just like in the Philippines, café and coffee shops are ever present in shopping blocks. But, in our area, I barely notice Starbucks coffee anywhere near. True that the coffee mogul had closed down some of its branches in Oz but even then, I haven’t spotted it in the shopping complex. Oh well, I think the locals are satisfied with the presence of the local coffee shops.

I have my share of drinking coffee. At least two cups a day. I didn’t embrace the tea though. I just don’t like the taste.

And the Tatapilla? He’ll have the biscuits, cookies, muffins, dough nuts, or anything that go with the coffee. And he loves it. Well, he loves anything that he can stuff in his mouth anyway.

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Simple Pleasures

We went shopping for Mummy this afternoon (more shoes). It was just supposedly a short trip (we didn't take the Tatapilla's pram) but Mcj decided to be effecient and killed two birds in one hit. We dropped in first to the telephone network company/provider. The little boy got bored so we wandered around. And look what he did? This was one of the security post at the entrance of the store. He crossed that barrier 3 times after me urging him to do it again and again (so I can take photos). Lol.

And a trip to the shops always includes a ride to one of these. Oh, how he loves it. Kids, it's just sooo easy to please them.

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Not Well

Yes, the Tatapilla is not well. That's my point of view because he is still his normal self. The runny nose and some cough are still coming on. Plus, this conjunctivitis that's been around. I checked cyh.com what is this illness:

Conjunctivitis is caused by an infection of the lining of the eyelids and of the outer protective layer of the eye (the conjunctiva). It can be caused by a germ (virus or bacteria) or by allergies.
It may not always be clear which type of problem is present as each will cause reddening of the conjunctiva.
If it is caused by bacteria both eyes are almost always infected, although it may start in one eye. There is likely to be a gritty feeling and pus.
Conjunctivitis from a virus may involve one or both eyes, causing red itchy eyes and watering of the eyes. There may also be pus and a gritty feeling.
If it comes from an allergy there are often other signs of hay fever including itchy nose and sneezing, the eyes feel itchy and run a lot.

In the Philippines, I gather this is what we call sore eyes. But of course, you'll have sore eyes when you have conjunctivitis. :)

I couldn't point though if the Tatapilla's is viral or bacterial. We bought him eye drops last night and he seems a little better, not that he was really that worse the day before last. His eyes were just pussy that he couldn't opened them right away when he woke up. Even then, that didn't stopped him from wandering around the house and get into mischief - and pulled some cords (not the HDMI type).

Oh well, according to my research I have nothing to worry about.

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Shoe Fetish

This may sound odd but the Tatapilla has a shoe fetish. He loves playing with my shoes - carry a shoe around with him. When he gets bored, he would take his shoes off and play with them. Mcj said, he is related to Imelda Marcos. :)

Anyway, we bought him a new pair this week. He's already in size 5. Though he still wears his size 3 and 4 shoes. Mcj said size 5 is humongous for him but hey, why buy shoes that will just fit him perfectly and no room for him to grow? They are not of famous brand (like MBT shoes) but a bit exy as they are leather and soft soled. Our first consideration when buying him shoes is soft and flexible for him to walk. And so far we're satisfied with these.

See that 6 on the side? It's just a design not the size of the shoes. :) It could be also 9.

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Ekka 2008

Ekka is a Aussie English for Brisbane Exhibition - formal term is Royal Queensland Show. The show was a spin-off from the famous International Exhibitions being held in Britain and worldwide dating from the Crystal Palace Exhibition of 1851.

So we hit the Ekka last yesterday. We took the train as most people do. Mcj told me that the famous food there were dagwood dogs, floss fairy (cotton candy for some) and cheerios. After buying the show program, I tested the dagwood dog right away. It's not fancy, just crumbed sausage on a stick but it was novelty. You can have it with tomato sause or just plain.
We timed our visit there for woodchopping contest so the first thing that we looked for was the woodchopping venue, which was at the opposite of where we came off the train.

This is the last event in the morning for chopping contest. Boy, it was dangerous just looking at it. Imagine this man, climbing a 2meter high post just stepping on that thing perched on the post with an axe that can shave a face? He won, btw - I think 2nd place.

These are just some of the rides for the adult and I guess those who can stomach heights and dizziness. Mcj was talking of us getting into one of them. I didn't dare as I have a horrible experience in ferris wheel. That was more than 2 decades ago but I can still remember the feeling.

These were the rides that Jens and I tried. We had fun.

There was also a parade of sort that I don't for what. There were lots of clowns and dragons.

The heat was sweltering even if it was summer. Ekka time was always windy but not this year or that Sunday. We had to cool off - ate ice cream under a shade.

We checked the canine show. Jens saw hundreds of dogs. We were not able to see all the other farm animals as pushing the pram through the crowd was a battle. Throngs of people were coming from all directions.

We capped the day by visiting the showbag pavillion. There were lots of stuff to buy - like confectionary, personalized gifts, jewelry, etc. We bought Jens this panda. Souvenir for his first Ekka experience.

One word to describe it. FUN!

Read more about Ekka here.

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Off To Ekka

We are going to a place with this tomorrow. The Ekka. I'm not planning to ride a ferris wheel. I would love to have fun in a merry-go-round but it was banned this year. I also want to try the chair lift but we have a pram so.. NO No No. But I want to have more fun.. fun.. fun.

And eat lots of food.. yum! I might need the best diet pills to shed off some pounds if I even gain some.

But, got to go now.. will have to check our itenerary for tomorrow. Will post photos, surely!

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A Toddler in the House

This maybe the lamest excuse you've ever read but it is true. The reason why I don't have much time to stay online is the Tatapilla. Now that he is out and about on his feet, I need to devote all my attention while he is awake or even asleep. He's not contented to stay in his cot, he doesn't want to stay in one room, and absolutely not satisfied to just stare. He needs to climb, the stamp his feet, taste everything and reorganize our furniture, etc. This is the time that we really ned a tv mount except that our tv can't be mounted. He hasn't found out how to use the buttons yet but he will eventually, I'm sure of that.

Yesterday, he was trying to climb out of his cot. His right foot was already mounted up. He knows how to mount his bike now. He wants to climb everything.

Raising Children Network says:

Your toddler is well and truly on the move, which makes safety more of a challenge than it was before.

And here are some tips to keep your toddler safe:

Encourage your child to sit while eating by sitting with him at a table or even on the floor. Children are more likely to choke if they eat while they are running around or playing.
Nuts can choke a child: it is usually not safe for children to eat nuts until they are five years of age, and not at all if they have an allergy. Nuts are usually most accessible when adults are having a party or barbecue.
Keep toys for small children and older siblings in separate boxes. Encourage older siblings to keep their small toys (Lego, doll clothes, beads, car parts) out of reach.
Use car restraints whenever your child is in the car.
Set up a safe play area outside that is fenced off from cars.
Always hold your toddler's hand around driveways, roads and car parks, and start teaching him about road safety.
Always take your toddler out of the car with you, even if you're popping in to a shop for just a moment. Leaving a child in a car, even on an overcast day, is like leaving him in an oven.
Stay close to your toddler when he's exploring playgrounds and trying new activities and feats of daring.

omg, I just realise that Jens is already a toddler. How fast time flies.

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The Tatapilla is ill

It's the first time that we experience this, the kind where you have to stay up most of the night, nurse him to sleep and almost all day. I can't leave him to anybody. Going to the shower was a battle.

He was running a temperature the night before last but it didn't worry us. But last night, it shot up. More than 38 degrees. We don't know the cause. Teething alone won't cause a temperature of more than 37.8.

I was force to get an appointment with the GP today, and his GP was not available so we saw the wife. Good thing, if you may call it that, it is just a viral infection. Everything was given clean bill but the throat. There will be a cursory appointment on Thursday.

We were really worried that it might be meningococcal disease - so we're really keeping an eye on him all the time.

I kept on reading the baby book that we got on how to treat fever. It didn't say much other than giving paracetamol and dressing down to keep cool. I was on the verge of calling my mother but I don't want them to worry about Jens. Apart from that, I don't want them to bug us on when are we going to the Philippines. Though Jens has his passport now, we can't go home yet. Whew!

We're at ease now as he is his happy self again. Hope he'll get better soon as our plates are full to the brim in the coming days.

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Four-some

Thanks, Mich for this tag.

A) Four places I go over and over:
:: library
:: supermarket/shops
:: park
:: beach

B) Four people who e-mail me regularly:
:: friends
:: family
:: friends
:: friends ;)

C) Four of my favorite food to eat?
:: pasta
:: salad
:: seafood
:: tuyo

D) Four places you’d rather be?
:: my parents' place (we don't really need moving trucks to get away)
:: any place in the philippines
:: shops
:: in the car - practise driving

E) Four people I think will respond:
:: wbliss
:: idealpinkrose
:: arlene
:: mitch

F) Four TV shows I could watch over and over:
:: friends
:: m*a*s*h
:: two-and-a-half-men
:: classic all saints

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Sport-y

At least we can go to sleep earlier than what we used to. Recently, we've been inundated with sports telecast until the wee hour in the morning that we left the television on overnight.

Wimbledon. We stacked up munchies. It usually started around 10-11pm. If my favourite player was playing, I stayed up until the match was finished. The women's single finals was swift. But men, the men's was not. It was going on like foreever. Every set had a tie-breaker plus the rain. I finally went to sleep past 6am.

Golf. I think it was the French Open (not in Orlando golf). Greg Norman of Australia was leading so we watch. Err.. just Mcj. I went to sleep past midnight but I can still hear the telly going so I was more awake than as asleep.

Tour de France. It usually ended around 2am. It is not everynight but they always have reply and because Mcj wasn't able to watch most of the early part of each telecast, we turned-on every night.

Then there's the big event coming. Olympics! I think, we won't stay that late because of a little time difference. I hope.

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Know Me More Tag

Thanks, Leah for this. Though, it's a little late.

The rules are simple. At the end of the post, the player tags 6 people and posts their names, then goes to their blog and leaves a comment, letting them know they’ve been tagged and asking them to read your blog. Let the person who tagged you know when you’ve posted your answer.

What was I doing 10 years ago?
I was busy studying for the CPA board exams at the same time enjoying life with friends. Carefree. I just finished college. :)

What are the 5 things on my to-do list today?
Blog.
Reply to the email for a friend.
Look-up something in the net.
Read.
Iron some clothes if I have some time.

Snacks I enjoy
Crackers, pretzels, fruit, smoothie, soup, spaghetti, corn in a cob, muffin, chocolate, nuts, nilagang saging and more.

Places where I lived
Three places in Negros Occidental (Isabela, Binalbagan, Bacolod), Manila and now in Down Under.

Things I’d do if I were a billionaire
Secure our family's future including the extended and some relatives (financially, that is).
Travel. Travel. Travel.
Donate to foundations or sponsor a child.
Most of all, make it sure that I will stay a billionaire for the rest of my life if I can. :)
And live simply (low profile if possible - but money could be like a digital signage on your forehead if you are rich).

Now I'm tagging wirelessbliss, arlene, idealpinkrose, mich, julai, and Joy.

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Real Spa For Mums

This is a fun meme from Arlene. Thanks, sis.

I don't visit spa. I can't remember if I ever did. :) Maybe once or twice. I'm not sure at all. Anyway, this indeed is a real spa.

Brow-threading. Whew! I haven't done this yet.. but I'm sure I will... soon. :)

Aroma therapy. Always. I'm actually a sniffer.

Microdermabrasion. I can't remember if this has happened yet. But it is too soon to say it won't. Hehehe.

Body-wrap. Always got this. Love it. Especially if it's in the shoulder. Love cuddles from the Tatapilla.

Blow-out. Yeah. When he sneeze. When he blow raspberries while eating. Not nice but funny. :)

Mitch, Mich, Eds.. would you like to do this also?

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