Thursday Thoughts...(I can't think of a better title)

Wow! It feels like forever since the last time I posted something on here. I cannot believe it's been almost what? Two weeks? Geez! Talk about "slacking off" big time.  Oh, it's been exactly two weeks!  I feel like there's so much to say right now, I just don't know where to begin, or how.

Well, let's start off with my schedule.  The never ending struggle when it comes to time management.  I admit, I haven't really been following the schedule I made for myself.  There's no excuse for that, I know.  I just want to change it and do better.  There is still a tendency for me to lose track of time once I get myself too involved in doing something.  Like for example, my school.  Once I start on it, time seems to slip by so quickly.  Before I know it, I've already spent more hours than I initially planned.  Thus, leaving me with a little time to do the rest of the stuff I need to get done for the day.

No, I didn't mean chores.  Of course, before I do school work, I make sure I am done with household chores.  I don't think I can ever concentrate thinking there are used dishes in the sink, or laundry in the hamper.  Or, even the living room not in order.  I make sure our home is clean and there's no work left undone before I do my own things.

Anyway, I'm talking about giving more time to the things I've always said I want to do so badly.  Take for instance, this blog.  I've started trying to edit the template, but I always end up reverting to its old design because I can't get what I want as far as the design and layout.  I didn't get a lot of time last week because my little girl got sick.  And this week, it was my oldest's turn.  He actually missed out on school from Monday to Tuesday because he was running a fever, and he started coughing.  I'm actually closely monitoring all 3 kids right now, because I have a feeling they're all going to get sick again - at the same time (I blame it on the changes in the weather lately).  Of course, I will never wish for that to happen.  But as a mother, I can tell even just by merely looking at them.  I know my babies too well.  That's why I always think and plan ahead of time.  So in case they do end up getting sick again, I won't get caught off guard.  But, I am praying that they'll be fine.  Especially this week because they have a Halloween/Fall Celebration at their school tomorrow, and all of them are looking forward to it.  I know it would break their hearts if they miss it.

So, I'm going to go back to messing with my blog right now while I have the free time.  If you see my blog kind of messed up, don't worry.  It's just me trying to ruin it in a graceful manner. LOL!!

I do hope I come up with something nice for my blog.  Or, I hope I can find a good base template that I can tweak and edit to my own penchant.

So, just bear with me, please! =)

I Need Motivation, Puhlease!

Okay... I have a confession to make.  I CAN'T SEEM TO FIND THE MOTIVATION TO WRITE AGAIN!!  I have been staring at the screen for a good amount of time now, and still nothing.  I am starting to not like this feeling.  When I am not doing anything, all I could think of is, WRITE.  But, once I get in front of the computer, it's like everything I've had in my head just a few minutes earlier, miraculously vanishes into thin air.  Is this a side effect of not being on here for years?  I don't understand.  I have so much in my head that I would love to put into words, but why does it seem so hard lately to even come up with something, somewhat decent to write about, just to begin with?  And the songs I'm currently listening to, aren't helping either.  I went and picked a feel-good playlist on YouTube to listen to, hoping it would inspire me to write something, but it is NOT working.  All it's actually doing right now is, make my mind wander off farther.  Not cool at all....

It's past midnight again,and I need to wake up in 4 hours.  I honestly had no intention staying up late tonight because it's not weekend yet, but I was motivated earlier to write.  Or, maybe I just thought I was.  I really did waste my time tonight.  I should've just e-mailed the lady about the information I asked from her a few days ago.  That would have made more sense right now.  Not to mention that it is a whole lot more important than this.  But, since I'm already here, might as well run my brain dry so I can be tired for bed once I get done ranting.  

Well, I guess I just haven't found the motivation again like I used to have.  Maybe I should be a little nicer to myself and give it some time.

I don't know...

I will just try again tomorrow.  I'm going to lay down now.  Maybe then, just maybe, after I get done with everything on my To Do List, I'll come up with something better to write about.  Because right now, my brain is completely empty.

So, goodnight, folks!   

I Eat Dirty, But I Train Dirtier =)

It's my very own version of the saying, "Eat Clean. Train Dirty" that I have read once on a fitness blog.  Yes, I really don't follow that saying because I, myself, find it hard to resist food most of the time.  Actually, I am trying not to resist eating a lot because I am trying to gain some pounds back.  I still am under the target weight I want.  So far, getting back into working out helped me gain 5 lbs in just 3 weeks.  I still need to gain 5 more, then, I'm good.  I'm at 105lbs right now, and my goal is to go back to 115lbs.

My workout doesn't include anything intense.  As a matter of fact, I do light exercises now since I'm not trying to lose weight anymore.  I just said that I train dirtier because I really don't let a day go by without working out, no matter how late I have to do it sometimes.  When I get too busy during the day, I workout at night after I've put my babies to bed.  No matter how tired or lazy I feel, I still force myself up to exercise every day.  It has become part of my daily routine.  My day will never be complete without my exercise.  But of course, except Sundays.  It's my rest and "cheat" day.  I get to eat all I want, what I want, without me having to feel guilty about it.  I mean, why deprive myself with food I love to eat, right?!  As long as I stay active, I think I'll be fine.  That's my main reason I chose to keep working out.

But FYI, I am not promoting the "Eat Dirty, Train Dirtier" thing.  Like what I've mentioned above, it's just my own version - something that works for me.  Do whatever works for you.  Your body is unique, and whatever suits you, do it.  I don't know if I'll be thankful because I get to eat what I want and not gain weight, or, should I worry that maybe my body isn't absorbing proper nutrients.  I don't know.  But I feel fine, and I've never felt more healthier in my life.  I just make sure that whenever I "eat dirty", I don't over-stuff myself.  I still eat in moderation.  I may not be following the whole healthy diet plan, but I also don't deprive myself from eating nutritious food.  

my favorite snack ;)

Eating chips, sweets, drinking soda, carbs, and even chocolates, are my favorites.  Yes, I am Filipino, so expect rice on my meals every day.  And I don't see myself not eating them just because of the thought that I might get "fat".  I mean, hello?!  Are you really that scared of gaining a little weight?  If you are, I am not! (Hehehe)

Anyway, still do whatever you're comfortable doing.  It's your body and you know it better than anyone else.  I'm not that health-freak, but I cannot be more thankful and proud of myself for achieving my goal of losing all of that "baby weight" from my 3 pregnancies.  When I look at myself now in the mirror, I can't help but smile.  I smile at the fact that I did it.  With the help of my husband, I reached my goal, and thanks to him for the great motivation.  Although he'd always tell me that I did it on my own, I still believe that he was such a big help.  He pushed me to my limit, and that's how I got to where I am now.

It's Been 4 Long Years

Today (March 9 in the Philippines) is our Grandpa's 4th death anniversary.  Yes, it's been four long years, yet it still feels like yesterday when he left us.  Inasmuch as it hurts to recall the day of his death, it's inevitable not to remember him all the time.  We still miss him just as much!  I miss his presence, I miss his voice, and above all, I miss Grandfather - everything about him!

It really is true that you never get over a death of a loved one.  You just learn to deal with the pain and longing as the days, months, and years go by.  If you ask me, I still don't think they're gone now.  Our Grandpa and Grandma are still with us.  In my heart, they'll always be there.

I never thought I'd start accepting the fact now that they're never coming back.  It hurts so much to think they're no longer with us, but it hurts more not being able to reach out to them and talk to them whenever I want to.  I miss the sound of their voice!  I miss how life was when they were still around!  Their presence brought so much joy and comfort to my heart regardless of the distance we had from each other.  Just knowing they were there, I've always felt I was home no matter where I was.

I'm trying my hardest not to cry right now.  But I think I'd feel much better if I let the emotions flow.  I know they would rather see me happy and not crying, but I think they will understand why I'm feeling sad right now.  I know in due time, this won't hurt as much anymore as it is hurting me right now.  As long as I know they're watching us from up above, my heart will always be at peace.

To you, Papi and Nana, we miss you so badly!  I know you know that I'd wish to hold you both in my arms right now, if only I could.  We will always love you!  We will always miss you!  Please, continue to watch over us.  And like what we always say, till we all meet again!

Everybody is Still Sick!

- image not mine -

It's almost 2 weeks now since everybody in the house started getting sick.  First, my husband. Then, the kids, and now, I'm still sick as well. Good thing, though, no more fever. We've just been suffering from cold and cough, and we have a clingy, grumpy, and sometimes whiny little girl here.  She got worse about 5 days ago.  She contracted cough and her fever came back.  For 3 days, Kaibelle was so restless.  She couldn't sleep, wouldn't eat, and she always wanted to be held.  That's why on Tuesday, regardless of how bad the weather was outside, my husband came home from work just to take her to their Pediatrician.  She prescribed antibiotics, and she's been on it for 3 days now.  Thank heavens for medicine!  Right after I gave her her first dose, she was able to nap for more than an hour - straight - first time in 3 days.  She's still coughing, but her condition has improved a lot already!

Our 2 little boys still have cough, too.  But I'm grateful that they're doing just fine.  They're still taking cough syrup, but they're back to playing again and making mess in their room!  I don't mind cleaning after them.  I'm just glad that they are feeling better now than how they were last week.

My husband has been back to work since Friday last week, but he's still taking medications, too up to now.  I'm the only one who probably is still feeling worse, but I don't mind at all.  I think it's because I really couldn't get as much rest as I need because I'm busy taking care of our sick kids.  I can nap while the kids are sleeping, but because I have cough, I really couldn't sleep straight.  Sometimes, I just lay on the couch but I couldn't take a nap.  I'm taking medicine, but like what I said, maybe it's because I have no rest that it really isn't taking effect on me.  Anyway, I have a doctor's appointment next week.  If anything, I might ask them to give me a prescription for antibiotics as well.  I think that's what I need now to break the phlegm/mucus and get it out of my system.

For now, we're more into water therapy and increased vitamin C intake.  And I'm taking antipyretic medicine, too to fight fever.  I'm hoping and praying that this would be our last week of being sick.  I just want to be able to get back to doing my daily routine without feeling too exhausted by the end of the day.

Well, Hello, March!

What's up, folks?!  It's March already!  I cannot believe how time flies so quickly!  I am also looking forward to this month because my Mama and my sister's kids are coming here to the US for a vacation.  I wish my mother could come and spend time with us again just like when she was here in 2011.  I really would love for her to stay with us even just for a month.

Anyway, speaking of my Mama, I remember her telling me about a few days ago, that the keyboard our church has been using every Sunday, got broken.  I think it was one of the best casio digital piano there is, because my Uncle bought that and donated it to the church 3 years ago.  We don't exactly know what happened, but I just got told that it's not working anymore.  I hope it can still be fixed so that they still have a keyboard they can use during Sunday service.  They church needs it. 

Well, I guess that's all for now.  Just wanted to stop by here.  My kids and I are still sick, so I am trying to get as much rest as I can.  Hope you all stay safe!  Have a great weekend! God bless!

A Not-So-Productive February (...and I hate it!)

February is already almost over and I just noticed that I haven't really been posting on this blog. There's been a lot going on, and I just couldn't find enough time to sit here and really focus on writing.  Aside from the fact that I haven't really been in the  mood to write lately, my husband and our 3 kids are all sick right now, and I've been very busy taking care of them.  God must be watching over me right now because I haven't contracted what they have been suffering from, for days now.  Kids have fever and when their temperature is high, they throw up.  I've also been doing loads of laundry these past few days.  My husband has been coughing, and right now, he might be admitted at the military hospital on base due to Pneumonia.  He just called me a few minutes ago to let me know that he possibly might not be able to come home tonight.  They're going to put him under observation till tomorrow morning.  He went in this morning to get checked because he's been feeling worse since Saturday, and he got told that they need to keep him overnight.  I hope he gets better soon.  And of course, the kids.

This month, definitely, isn't a good one for me and my family.  I cannot wait for it to be over!  I just want my little ones to get better and have my happy and playful babies back!  And I want to be able to write again without being bothered by "unnecessary things".   Oh, how I hate that feeling!  I hate it with a passion!

Good thing, my kiddos are taking their nap right now that's why I got the time to write.  But I cannot stay that long.  I still have stuff to do.  It's going to be another long night for me tonight.  I wish I can take my babies' sickness away right now and transfer it all to me, so they don't have to suffer anymore!  It breaks my heart every time I look at them, and all I see are weak faces, flushed cheeks, and pain in their eyes.  I just want them to get better -- NOW!

New Addition to Our Calphalon Kitchenware

Now, I can say that I'm finally happy with our new kitchenware set!  From the Christmas gift that we got from my Mother-in-law (a set of Calphalon pots and pans), the hubby went to the outlet store and bought some more.  He took advantage of the President's Day sale and got a pretty good deal on almost all the stuff he bought.

He got us a new knife set.  I have been asking for real good knives to use while cutting meat and veggies, and finally, I got my very own Chef knives.  I love that the knives' handles are labeled according to their types,  making it easier for you to grab what you need.  Before, I used to pull out almost all the big ones just to find the right knife I wanted to use.  It was a hassle!  Now, I look forward to more fun and easier way of cooking in our kitchen.

new set of knives..

I love the label on the knives!

Here's another stuff that the husband got.  Since we love having omelette on weekends, he bought an 8-inch and 10-inch nonstick pans.  He also bought a pancake pan.  We like it because we can make pancakes that the size is just right for the kids.

I haven't used any of the new stuff yet, but I already washed them.  I probably will use them this weekend.  I am so excited to start using them, though!  The omelette pans are dishwasher safe, but as much as possible, I'll hand-wash them so they stay in good condition even longer.  The only problem is, they're really not that light.

omelette and pancake pans ;)

The hubby said, he might get an even larger pot for pasta.   I don't know when he plans on doing that, but I think that's a good idea since I cook pasta a lot for the family.  I have been using a small pot to boil the noodles and it has always been a pain in the butt!  Hopefully, we get to buy a bigger one here soon.

We're just stocking up on important things right now and getting advantage of us living close to an outlet store.  We're almost about to leave and we want to make sure we have all that we'll need to take with us.

These Calphalon kitcheware weren't cheap, but we definitely got what we paid for.  And the good thing is, they last long, as long as you know how to really take good care of them.

Happy Valentine's Day! [2013]

Let me take this opportunity to greet everyone "Happy Valentine's Day!"  What have you planned for the day for you and your special someone?  Are you going out tonight on a date?  Or, did you just plan on staying home, have dinner, maybe watch a movie, and then, some time together?

Well, as for us, we'll be staying home with the kids.  My husband has to go to work, and we both don't know if he'll even get off work early today.  Last night, he got home past midnight.  He's been working on a case right now.  Before he left work last night at around 11:40PM, he called me to let me know he was still stuck in the office trying to get some things done.  I felt bad because his voice sounded so exhausted.  He hasn't been getting enough sleep in the past few days, and I think it's starting to take its toll on him.  This morning, I heard him sniffling in the bathroom while getting ready for work.  I know he's not feeling well anymore.  But since he's in charge of the primary CACO phone, he has no choice but to do his job.  And yes, even today, on Valentine's Day, we might not even have enough time to celebrate it together.  I'm sure he'll be dead tired again by the time he gets home.  I think we'll just have to make time for missing today's special occasion sometime this weekend.  It sucks, I admit!  But that's how military works, and I need to understand him.

So, to those who will be celebrating Heart's Day with their beloved, have fun!  You guys are so lucky you have the time to be together!  Make the most out of it....

Anyway, I still need to finish the Valentine card I'm making for my hubby.  I didn't get the chance to buy anymore, so I'm creating one myself.  I hope I will be able to remember how I used to make cards when I was younger.  This will be the first time in such a long time.  Wish me luck! ;)

And, before I go, I'll leave you with this love quote...

The arms of love encompass you with your present, your past, your future, the arms of love gather you together. - Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

 Happy Valentine's Day To All!

No Cake For Us This Heart's Day =(

Angel Food Cake image from FoodNetwork.com

For the past 2 Valentine's we've had here (since we moved), I have always baked cake.  This year will be the first time that I won't be baking any.

First reason, I didn't really plan ahead of time.  I wanted to bake Angel Food Cake, but there are some ingredients I forgot to buy.  I don't have anymore sugar, enough eggs, orange extract, and cream of tartar.  And above all, I don't have the pan to use to bake the cake in.  (Yes, I know, right?!)  I still have to buy one to be able to do it.  I've been thinking about getting the Bundt/fluted pan instead of the regular one, simply because I like its shape.

I wanted to ask my husband to take us all to the store so I can get all the stuff I need, but his schedule lately has been ridiculously busy.  It's even hard for him to really spend time with us because he usually leaves early for work, and he gets home late.  I wish everything would be back to normal again next week!

Anyway, I absolutely have no idea what to do for Valentine's Day tomorrow.  Like what I said, I wanted to at least bake a cake for us to enjoy after dinner, but I don't have everything I need.  I don't even know if he'll be home early, or if it's going to be another late night at work.  I don't even have a card for him, and that makes me feel really bad!  I wanted to go out today to buy one, but he's not home yet, and the store closest to us closes at 10PM.  I'm sure he's working on a case again.  He's been doing it for the past week now.  He's been doing reports on recruits being admitted to the hospital, and he needs to gather every information he can get to give out to their respective families to keep them updated.  I think I'll just have to look for something else to give him.

Well, I still am planning on baking a cake probably this weekend.  I might bake Lemon Angel Food Cake instead, since I'll have more time to do it now, and I actually can buy all the ingredients I will need.  But who knows what I might end up baking then?!  Because to be honest, I have 3 different kinds of cake in mind that I want to bake.  I'll ask the hubby first what he wants, then, I'll go from there.  I don't mind whichever he picks.  I can eat any type of cake! (*winks*)   

Winter Storm

Snow storm just started when I took this photo an hour ago.

All plans for today were cancelled because of the bad weather.  Right now, we have a severe winter storm warning, that according to the weather forecast, will be in effect until 12AM CST Friday.  We were supposed to take our two boys to their doctor for their wellness check-up, but I had to call in to reschedule the appointment to next week.  It's not looking good outside, and driving in this kind of weather would be really tough.

My husband is still at work right now, but he said he will try to get off work early today because he's worried that if he stayed longer, getting home would be impossible later on.  I already saw two plow trucks plowed the street outside.  And I think I'll be seeing another one here soon because the snow is coming down pretty good.  But in spite of how bad the weather is, it actually looks pretty outside.  It's so white and it really does feel winter to me.  We haven't had this much snow this winter yet, and I'm just glad we're getting it now.

Don't you find it weird that I actually am loving this winter storm right now?  (Hehehe.)  I am actually being tempted to step outside right now and play in the snow.  But, I'll wait till there's more snow on the ground. And, I mean A LOT.

By the way, what's with Thursday?  This has been the second Thursday in a row that we're getting hit a bad by winter weather.  Last week (Thursday), when I had my OB appointment, it was snowing and very cold, too.  The only day last week when the temperature was at its lowest, and it snowed.  And today, it's even worse.  Oh well, at least I'm seeing a lot of snow now.  That, I cannot complain.  I honestly thought this would be the most "dry" winter.  I always say, as long as we don't experience any power outage, I don't even mind if we get hit by a blizzard again, just like what happened two years ago.  I would love to experience that once more.  (I hope I just didn't jinx that!)

Anyway, I need to get some chores done while the kiddos are taking their nap.  Well, I'll be back later... If not, tomorrow..

Of all the days, why today?!

We're going out today to my OB appointment at 1:45 PM.   I just don't feel like going out because of how cold it is outside.  I cannot believe that on Tuesday and yesterday, the temperature was up in the 60s.  But, just in time for my appointment, it went drastically down to freezing!  And, on top of that, of all the days this week, today is the coldest. Gotta love the weather here!

And, oh, let's not forget the wind, of course.  It's started to get windy outside.  I don't have any idea how cold it is now, and I don't even want to know!

Well, it's almost 9:30 now, I better start getting ready.  I still have 3 kids to bundle up, and getting them ready usually takes me almost an hour.  I'd say, 10-15 minutes each.  It's always like this every winter because I always make sure they stay warm while we're outside, so I put layers of clothes on them.

I hope my appointment won't take too long, so we'd still have enough time to get a haircut.  Better hit two birds with one stone, right?  We'll be out anyways, might as well do it now since we never got to do it last Sunday because of how cold and snowy it was outside.

So, I'll be back later.  Time to get going.  And, freeze - not!  (Hehehe)..

Will Be Back Later..It's Sleep Time..

It's already almost 4 in the morning.  Time for me to get some sleep.   I'm sure my husband won't be happy with me once he noticed me just getting into bed right now.  He doesn't like me staying up so late.

I should have been asleep already.  But, I decided to prepare food for him to take to work so I don't have to worry about it later.  With me not feeling too well right now, I doubt if I'd wake up early enough to get his food ready.  That's why I did it ahead of time.

When I got done, I suddenly felt hungry, so I ate a small snack (salad and grilled tilapia) just to fill my tummy.  And now, I'm blogging while waiting for the food to digest.  I know I shouldn't have done that, but I couldn't go to sleep feeling hungry, either.

I can already see myself sleeping in till 10 in the morning.  Well, sometimes, I don't get out of bed till my kids are up (they're usually already up by 8:30).  I catch up on some sleep whenever I can because taking naps during the day is almost impossible.  My husband wakes up early, and I wake up, too.  And I stay up after that.  It's very rare for me to be able to go back to sleep in the morning, and then wake up in a couple of hours.  Once I'm up, I stay up. 

I'll just finish one more post, then I'm off to bed.  I'll see you later on today.

Hope you all had a great weekend!  Goodnight, folks!!

Cancelled Today's Plan

We were supposed to go out today, get the kids and I a haircut, then, do grocery shopping.  But it started snowing, so I decided to do it some other time because I haven't been feeling good since last night.  I was hoping it won't snow today because I'm worried that if I go out in the cold right now, I might end up feeling worse.  And that's the last thing I want to happen right now.  Also, we both thought it wouldn't be good to take the kids out, either.  It was just too cold for them.  We agreed to get the haircut this week, if ever hubby gets off work early, or, on Thursday after my OB appointment.  It's actually even better to go and do it on a weekday because most people will be at work.

Anyway, I took this photo just a few minutes after it started snowing.  This wasn't how it really looked like once it started coming down.  And this is why I chose not to go out.

snowing pretty heavily...

I just hope it really won't get too cold on Thursday, though I read on the forecast that the lowest temperature will be -2 degree Fahrenheit.  Of all the days this week, Thursday will be the coldest so far.  Perfect timing for my check-up!  What a way to joke, Mother Nature?!  Thanks a lot!  (Hehehe...)

Pharmacy Issues

I'm not going to hold back my disappointment right now with the pharmacy where I get my birth control pills from.  Since we got transferred to them a year ago because our insurance stopped covering the previous pharmacy, I've dealt with calling them almost every month just to get my refill.  It's not supposed to be that way, especially when we've already told them so many times to put me on automatic refill, and they agreed - every time.  My husband even personally talked to one of their Pharmacists in November last year, and told her to fix the issue where I don't have to call them every time because I always get the "Your prescription couldn't be refilled without your Doctor's authorization" on the phone whenever I call to get my prescription.  Are you kidding me?  For a year now, it's been the same thing!

Today, I called again to get my refill, and guess what?  Darn right, I got the same thing - cannot be refilled without your Doctor's blah blah blah!  And the funny thing was, when I called them last month and had to deal with the same thing, I told the Pharmacist again, for the hundredth time, to please, put me on automatic refill, and she said yes, she'll take care of it.  Well, looks like nobody even cared to do their job right.  Because here I am again, dealing with the same issue.  And what upset me more was, even after I told the lady, I only had one pill left and I don't get seen by my OB until this Thursday, she insisted that I cannot get my refill without authorization from my doctor.  That I have to wait till Monday, skipping one pill for Sunday, then, I can get my pills after they called my OB.  I knew it.  I should have called ahead of time.  I had the feeling that they probably just lied to me again about the whole refill thing, but because the lady said that she'd fix everything the last time I called them, so I won't have to worry about calling them again, I thought she actually finally took care of it.  But, I was so wrong!  And, yes, I'm going to call them out on this one.  They basically lied to me again!  You don't sit there and tell somebody something and then, you turn around and do exactly the opposite.  To me, that's lying.  I just can't believe they'll let their costumers deal with something like this over and over and over again.

I never encountered the same problem with the previous pharmacy.  We only gave them my prescription once, and they took care of the rest.  Every month, when I called to get my refill, it was ready.  Not once did they tell me I cannot get my pills refilled, unless I have my Doctor's authorization.  They have the best service ever!  I wish we never had to transfer to a different pharmacy.

My husband got so pissed when I told him about the problem, especially because he actually talked to their Pharmacist in person about the same issue, when he went there to pick up my pills last November.  He told me that we will go there tomorrow, and he will talk to them again.  And if they say no, then, we'll inform TriCare and let them know the type of service they're giving us.  It's not fair.  No costumer deserves such thing.  

This will be the last time I'll be nice to them.  Next month, if they tell me the same reason again, they definitely will deal with me this time!  It's not a threat.  That's a promise!

Just ridiculous, I must say!

The "Old" Songs Are the Best

The other day, while I was watching videos on YouTube, I found this one song that was so popular when I was a kid.  I played it, and childhood memories came flashing back.  After listening to the song, I started remembering more and more songs that I used to dance to every time I heard them playing on the radio.  I listened to them one by one.  And, that's when an idea popped into my head.

I went to our bedroom, grabbed my iPod, hooked it to the laptop and started deleting "new" songs I had on there that I never really listen to anymore.  I went online and looked for the "old" songs, and luckily, I found all that I searched for.  I downloaded them, and transferred them to my iPod.  I'm just so happy that I can finally listen to them anytime I want now!

I actually cannot believe I would go back to listening to the songs from 80s and early 90s.  Even my husband was surprised about it.  When he listened to the song that was playing on my iPod, he laughed.  He wasn't making fun of me, though.  He was joking about how I know the song when I wasn't even around yet when they came out, or I was still too small.  He was like, "Do you even know who sang the song?"  Then, when I replied, "No!  But, I'm sure you do because you're old", he stopped.  And, we both started laughing.

I don't know if it's just me, but I love the old songs more than the hit songs nowadays.  To me, there's more feelings to them compared to the type of music we all listen to today.  Most of the songs we have in the present, create noise.  Most of the singers sing because they can sing.  They don't sing from the heart, thus, you don't feel the connection between you and their songs anymore.  It's very rare to find one who still does. That's why, when I want to listen to music, especially love songs, I listen to songs by England Dan, Chris Norman, Barry Manilow, David Pomeranz, David Foster, Peter Cetera, to name a few.  I feel their music.  They convey truer feelings than the love songs I hear these days.

I am picky when it comes to music genre, particularly the type of songs I want to listen to.  If there's something I didn't like today, don't expect me to like it anytime soon.  Maybe even forever.  And if there's a song I fell in love with, expect to find me listening to it over and over again.  And I don't stop until I memorize every line of the song, by heart.

You'd be surprised that I know more songs from the 80s than songs that are supposedly from "my generation".  I just don't like them that much, plain and simple.

Are you, in any way, like me when it comes to music?

I Miss My College Days!

Sometimes, when I look at my old photos taken when I was still in college, I couldn't help but miss those days.  I know I used to say back then, "I wish I'm already done with school so I don't have to wake up early or stay up late anymore, worry about exams, quiz, and getting good grades."  But now, I miss school!  I actually miss being a student!

I took up Medical Technology for 2 years, then, I changed my course to Nursing.  It wasn't really my choice, but I had to.  But in the long run, I started loving it.  It wasn't as bad as I thought it would be.  Though giving up Medical Technology broke my heart, I actually am thankful now that I did.  I had no idea I would fall in love with Nursing till I actually realized, it's what I have been wanting to do all along.

The only thing I don't miss that much - wearing our women and mens scrubs every time we had to do community service.  We would even joke around about how we actually looked more like "street vendors" than student Nurses.  Of course, we weren't serious at all.  It was all just a joke.

(night duty..tired and sleepy..hehehe)

I miss this group! I wonder where they are now...

I miss having to wake up with something to look forward to in school!  I miss spending breaks with my friends, having snack with them, or just chit-chatting while waiting for our Professor to be back!  I miss a lot of things that I used to do as a student!  I miss those carefree days!  And above all, I miss the friends I've made during those times.  I am grateful for the ones I still am in contact with till now! But, I wish I could find the others that I haven't talked to in a long time.  It's sad that I can't remember all their names anymore.  I tried searching for them on social networking sites, but I couldn't find them.  I just hope that we'll get to reconnect one of these days.  I just want to see how they've been and to let them know that I haven't forgotten about them.  Well, I might have forgotten some of their names or last name, but not the memories I've had with them.  They were my friends, and they always will be my friends.

Back to Using Facial Moisturizer

When I got pregnant, I stopped using beauty products completely.  Well, except for the mildest facial wash available.  I know that there are beauty products that are safely made for pregnant women to use, but I opted to stop anyway.  My first reason was, I hated their scent.  I never had any problems with morning sickness, but when I smelled something I didn't like, I got sick.

Another thing was, being pregnant with boys, I don't know if there's any scientific explanation to that, I never really liked any girly stuff that much.  It only changed when I got pregnant with our 3rd child, our (youngest) baby girl.

Even before we found out what our baby's gender was, I already had the feeling that we were having a girl.  With the first two boys, I hardly noticed girl's stuff.  I would only go for something I need every day.  But with our baby girl, I felt like I had a complete 360 degree turn.  I suddenly got interested in girl things even as small as colored hairpins.  I remember asking my husband to get me a liquid eyeliner, when I was 4 months pregnant.  He got me one, but I never used it.  I just loved the feeling of owning one.  The next thing I "craved" for, curling iron.  Well, I am using it now.  But during my entire pregnancy, I think I only opened the box twice, and it wasn't even until my husband reminded me that I got one, and that I should use it.  The only thing that my pregnancies with the boys and the girl have in common - I never used beauty products.

I have a very sensitive skin.  Thankfully, my face doesn't breakout!  My problem when I stopped using facial cream, during winter, or every time it gets cold, my face would peel.  We all know that our skin goes through a natural peeling process all the day.  But, excessive and visible peeling aren't considered normal.  It may be caused by a skin condition, sunburn, or really dry skin, like mine.  Moisturizer, obviously, keeps our face looking fresh, soft, and radiant.  When I stopped using it, my face became dry.  I hated looking at my face peeling off.  It made me feel so uncomfortable.  (I honestly don't know why I stopped using moisturizer for that long, but I'm glad I got back to applying facial cream again!)

It's only been two days since I started using facial cream again (twice a day), and I already have felt and seen the big improvement.  Wow, I almost forgot how it feels like to have a face that's moisturized and radiant-looking!  I should have started using it again right after I gave birth.  What in the universe was I thinking?!  I'm just glad my face didn't get ruined completely! (Hahaha)

I now know that I can live without make-up, but not without facial moisturizer.  Never will I neglect my face like that, ever again! 

Staying Up Because of My Sick Baby =(

Here in a few, I'm going to get some sleep.  I only decided to stay up because our oldest is sick right now.   He's had fever since yesterday, and I'm monitoring him every hour.  I'm just thankful to God that after he took his medicine, he went to sleep.  I was actually afraid that tonight was going to be a long and hard one because last night, before dinner, he threw up.  No wonder why he was telling me yesterday while we were at the table having lunch, "Mama, I feel really tired.  My face is hot."  I reached out my hand to feel his forehead, and he really was hot.  I hurriedly grabbed the thermometer, took his temperature, and was shocked to see that it read, 103.2 degree Fahrenheit!  I didn't waste any time.  I grabbed their children's Tylenol, gave it to him, and I took him back to their bedroom.  No less than 5 minutes, I went to check on him, he was out.  His cheeks were so flushed, and that worried me.  I gave him sponge bath, changed his clothes, applied vapor rub on his chest, and made sure he was dry and comfortable.  I left the room after taking care of him, so he could rest.  But even then, I still kept thinking what else I needed to do.  In times like that, I honestly believe that no matter what I've learned from my Nursing course, sometimes, when it comes to taking care of your own sick child, it seems like everything is not good enough.  That you would do whatever it takes to make them feel better right away.

Thanks be to God, after taking his second dose of medicine, and after he threw up (due to his high temperature) and rested, he started playing with his younger siblings again!  He wasn't back to his normal self yet, but the sight of him moving around and talking, gave me such a relief.

He also didn't get to eat with us at dinner tonight.  I actually missed him!  We always eat meals together.  I had to feed him last because I waited for the medicine to take effect first, so he won't throw up again.  I asked him what he wanted to eat, and he told me oatmeal.  So, I made him oatmeal mixed with milk, and gladly, he ate it all up!  Good thing, too, my husband was still at work at the time, so I asked him to buy more Tylenol, vapor rub, and baby oil on his way home.  And because I told him that Kai threw up, he also went ahead and bought Pediatric Electrolyte for him to drink and rehydrate himself.

I gave my baby boy his last dose of medicine for the night at 11:30.  I initially planned on giving him Tylenol every 4 hours, that's why I'm staying up.  But when I checked him just a few minutes ago, his temperature went down, so I might just let him sleep for now and allow his body to rest and recuperate.

Now, it's my turn to hit the hay.  I don't think I'm going to be able to sleep, but I'll try.

I'm praying that my little boy will get better in the morning, and for the other two little monsters to not get sick.

What to Bring...and What "Not" to Bring...

Since the day my husband confirmed that we actually are PCSing (Permanent Change of Station) overseas, there's never been a day that went by where I haven't sat, looked around our house, and thought to myself "What are the things that we can take with us, and what can we leave behind?"

I remember asking my husband this question, and he told me that there might be a limit to what we can take with us.  I think he mentioned about weight.  He said that there's a certain weight allowed for household goods, so we really need to figure out the most important ones to take with us.  With that being said, I honestly am torn in between taking stuff we would love to have with us, and those we absolutely need.  As far as house decor, I really am not worried about them.  I think it's even better if we don't take any of it because, for sure, we'll end up buying stuff when we get there.  I actually want us to start with barely having things in the house, so when it's time for us to come back, we'd only pack the ones we bought while we were there, and we don't have to worry about shipping so many things back home.  I can already see the many good stuff we can buy from there.  But of course, there are certain things that I still would like to take with us, only if we can.

Hubby already said we will take our electronics.  As far as how many of the electronics we have that he plans on taking with us, that, I don't know.  But, I think our TVs are going.  We have 3 televisions at home; one in the living room, one in our bedroom, and the last one, in our boys' room.  If we end up taking all 3, then, we might need a third TV stand.  We only have two right now, that's why I'm hoping we could find flat panel tv stands for sale that are affordable, before we need to pack.  I like the stand, shown in the photo above, for the boys' room.  I like it because we can mount it to the wall, thus, allowing more space for other things that need to go in their room as well.  We have wall mount for their TV, so we can still use that and have it actually rest on something sturdy at the same time.  It will add more support to it.  I still love the idea of having the TV mounted to the wall because it won't be easy for them to pull it down, just in case.  You know how kids can be.  And, prevention is still better than cure.

We really still haven't sat down and talked about this whole "household goods" matter, so I still don't have a lot of ideas as far as what we're taking and what we think we can put in storage for the whole time we're away.  But, here soon, I know we're going to talk about it.  I think he just hasn't brought it up yet because he still got a lot of other more important things to take care of right now.  I guess what I can do is, make my own list of things that we might take and show it to him.  He can just cross out the ones he thinks won't be necessary, and add the ones that are important.  It won't be much, but that will help him somehow.  I hope!