Sick!

It's been over a week since I caught this cold. It's irritating because I get to stop doing the things that I used to do like going outside doing my walk or visiting my friends. I thought I was tough but two days before Christmas I remember my husband telling me to go outside the house dress for the weather meaning I shouldn't be going out with my flip lops and shirt.

It started when we clean the yard, blew the leaves and burned them. That whole afternoon till the early evening was spent clearing out our yard. Then the next day my voice started to get hoarse and by christmas time I couldn't talk. I was complaning to my husband that I couldn't loose my voice on Christmas day because there's gonna be a "karaoke" at this filipino party that we've been invited to. That's a worst feeling, doing the things you love best and yet you can't do it. Also, can you imagine dreading the phone calls because it's I can't talk. I've never been this sick with cold than this time.

I hate it, actually for the last two days I felt alot better but then I ventured outside this morning to go to the grocery and when I got home it all started back again. I cough incessantly and I felt like a useless crap. I hope before the year ends in 4 hrs tonight I could leave this cough and toss all my cough medicine with the old year. I hope to start the year with a clean slate of health..... Happy New Year everyone!

My First Christmas!

Generally I noticed that filipinos and americans celebrate christmas the same way. Big family dinner on the 24th or what we call noche buena back home but what's evident tho' is the overflowing of food at my mother-in-law's table. It was just too much, I've never seen so many food in my life than this christmas. I think I've gained 10 lbs in one night.

Also, I noticed that in my husband's family it's all about the kids and what they want. It's the same back home Christmas is for kids. I remember Colton asking her mama to bake cookies for Santa and to prepare an apple and carrot for Prancer I don't know why he specifically want to feed that raindeer. Haley even told me she got a letter from Santa and it's so funny how the kids get to talk about it. They're eyes all lit up with excitement. I just love stories about kids and Santa I hope some people won't spoil the "magic" behind Santa and let the memories lingers until kids are old enough to discover the truth about it. Isn't it Santa and the kids story fascinating?

And to think that children here are alot luckier yet they do not appreciate what they got. I overheard one kid yesterday who said "is this the only thing Santa gave me" and it was a WII. My heart sank the kids have no idea of what they got I think the kids back home are alot appreciative and happy for anything that is given to them. I remember my nephews and nieces don't ask for anything if you give them a simple toy they'll think that they got everything.

Back to my first Christmas, my husband had a Christmas breakfast with his kids and their families. We had biscuits, ham, tenderloin, sausage, bacon, coffee, orange juice, bread, name it we got it. It was a happy reunion though we always see each other almost everyday it was a different happy occasion.

Christmas evening we went to our filipino-american party and as usual there are alot of food and my favorite "lechon" (roasted pig). At the party as we're eating we got to be seated beside this annoying older filipina lady who keeps talking about herself, her family her wealth. One time she talked about how she spent $20k when she went back to the philippines last year for three weeks. She was also talking about the house that she's buying for $500k I tired to pay her no attention but as she talk about something her voice gets louder. She didn't notice that we're all having a good time eating while she talks incessantly about herself. This filipino Dr. sometimes acknowledge her while the rest of us ate with gusto. We left the party early and while driving home my husband talked about that old lady and we both wonder how she got all the money she's talking about she doesn't seems to have all the money from her look (my bad) hehehehe

Now that Christmas is over my first white christmas has not materialized, it was cold and I was sick at least my fist Christmas experienced is beyond christmas presents I was happy but it could be happier with my family back home. Belated Christmas greetings everyone!

Charice Pempengco!

I was bitten by this Charice Pempengco bug (this filipina you-tube sensation)I want to share everyone her much talk about anticipated performace at the Ellen DeGeneres Show today. Found this at the show's website! Watch it!

http://ellen.warnerbros.com/2007/12/charice_pempengco_i_am_telling.php


An hour later here's the actual performance floating at you-tube!

Christmas Home Away from Home!

As usual as the days gets closer to the holidays and the chaos of the commercialize christmas brings I really feel the longing of spending the holidays back to my home country the Philippines. It's tough especially if your favorite holiday of all time is like mine christmas but with the popularity of you tube somehow lessen the homesickness and makes you real closer to home. I love this commercial!

Christmas Songs!

Right after Halloween we've already started hearing Christmas Carols over the airwaves. Middle of November our State has already dedicated a FM station that play Christmas songs only. Earlier tonight coming home from our usual dinner date my husband said he never thought that Christmas Songs could sustain a station for the whole day with little repeats of the songs. I have to agree I find it amusing that day in and day out the station carries all Christmas songs non-stop.

My husband's all time favorites are Christmas Shoe, I Want A Hippopotamus for Christmas and Mary did you Know in that order. Have to agree with him he was the one who introduced me to these songs and I immediately fell in love with them. The first time I heard the song Christmas Shoes it brought me to tears it was soo sad while the song I Want A Hippopotamus for Christmas is soooo cute and funny. The kind of song that will make you feel the happiness that goes with the season. And the song Mary did you know said it all, that the essence of Christmas is the birth of our Lord Jesus.

Please find time to listen to the songs. Have a blessed Christmas, Jesus is so
sweet!

Also, some friends requested for the lyrics of the song "I Want A Hippopotamus for Christmas" so here it is...

Words and Music by John Rox
I want a hippopotamus for Christmas
Only a hippopotamus will do
Don't want a doll, no dinky Tinker Toy
I want a hippopotamus to play with and enjoy

I want a hippopotamus for Christmas
I don't think Santa Claus will mind, do you?
He won't have to use our dirty chimney flue
Just bring him through the front door,
that's the easy thing to do

I can see me now on Christmas morning,
creeping down the stairs
Oh what joy and what surprise
when I open up my eyes
to see a hippo hero standing there

I want a hippopotamus for Christmas
Only a hippopotamus will do
No crocodiles, no rhinoceroses
I only like hippopotamuses
And hippopotamuses like me too

Mom says the hippo would eat me up, but then
Teacher says a hippo is a vegeterian.
(Short Music Interlude)
There's lots of room for him in our two-car garage
I'd feed him there and wash him there and give him his massage

I can see me now on Christmas morning,
creeping down the stairs
Oh what joy and what surprise
when I open up my eyes
to see a hippo hero standing there

I want a hippopotamus for Christmas
Only a hippopotamus will do
No crocodiles or rhinoceroseses
I only like hippopotamuseses
And hippopotamuses like me too!

No Birthday Surprise

It's not yet my birthday but my husband planned a dinner three days earlier than my actual big day. This is because he's working sunday which is my real birthday. The trouble with my husband and me is that we can't keep a secret from each other so any move to surprise me I'll definitely learn about it before hand since I open his emails and he does the same with mine.

He bought me a winter coat as birthday presents but before he could even manage to pull a surprise I already found it out because I read it on his email to make the matter worst I was the one who got the package when it was delivered so he wasn't even able to wrap it moreso, see his birthday present before me so I kinda killed the element of surprise. And as a matter of fact I wore it the night we went out for dinner.

Anyway, my birthday dinner was a great night. He took me to this upscale restaurant and partook of the most sumptous seafood specialty the resto offered. I was overwhelmed with happiness. The night was enchanting I couldn't ask for more.

My birthday this year has been extra special for me. I married the best husband in the world as cliche as it may sound to others, it's the truth. I never imagine a five year tumultuous long distance relationship with my husband would end up like this. No regrets, he surpassed all my expectations of him. He's given me more that I can ask for. I've been so blessed.

Driving on my own!

Since, I got my license I am now enjoying the freedom of driving alone, not bothering my husband to take me to places I want to go to like going to town, grocery store, visiting my filipina friends. I am driving to places that four months ago I was strangely scared to even get out of the main road. So here I was on my first real driving challenge I gave myself last sunday.

I decided to attend church service alone since my husband was working that night. When I told my husband about it he was a little bit apprehensive but told me to call him immediately once I get home. I went to the 6pm service. It was raining, it was dark and I was determined to go to church. I ventured out on my own. I was somewhat nervous because this would be the first time for me to drive on a rainy night. Got to church in one piece. Darrell Mc Neil greeted me and asked if I drove myself to church alone, with pride I said yes and he said you go girl and next time I'm sure you'll be riding your husband's Harley, wow the feeling was heaven lol!

After the service, I decided to drive around town checked out the christmas decors and dropped by my filipina friend's house Jeannette's. Unfortunately, she was still at work so I decided to head home since it was still raining I carefully steered the wheel back to the house. Got home again safely.

I know I still have a long way to go as far as my driving is concern but at least little by little I get the hang of it. I know it worries my husband when I go out alone especially at night and it's raining. His paramount concern is my safety but driving solo helps me gain much needed confidence plus I'm beginning to love the liberating feeling it brings to someone who back home was even afraid to just even sit in the front passenger seat much more learn how to drive. Out here I was forced to beat my own fears because I got no choice but to make it on my own.

Tagged!

Birth Month Tag

I am not really on this tagging "thing" I was tagged many times in the past but have spoiled it. To me it's like "chain letter" hoopla. And so I changed my mind and here I am. Sorry to my other friends who've tagged me before, my birthday is coming that's why I'm doing this (vested interest huh!

I was tagged by Liza of Mom of Two about my birth month. I will then highlight the traits that tells the truth about me.

1. Mention the person who tagged you and create a link back to them. 2. Copy-paste the traits for all the twelve months (see below). 3. Pick your month of birth. 4. Highlight the traits that apply to you. 5. Tag 12 people and let them know by visiting their blogs and leaving a comment for them. 6. Let the person who tagged you know when you've done it!

My Birth Month

DECEMBER: Loyal and generous. Sexy. Patriotic. Active in games and interactions. Impatient and hasty. Ambitious. Influential in organizations. Fun to be with. Loves to socialize. Loves praises. Loves attention. Loves to be loved. Honest and trustworthy. Not pretending. Short tempered. Changing personality. Not egotistic. Take high pride in oneself. Hates restrictions. Loves to joke. Good sense of humor. Logical.

Loyal and generous. I know I am loyal to the bitter end!

Sexy. Hmmm I guess I am sexy, at 4'11 104 lbs lol!

Patriotic. Veryyyy Proud Filipino and I love America too!

Active in games and interactions. What can I say if I could still play football with Colton for an hour at 40 yrs old I'm still active and fit hehehe

Impatient and hasty. A little bit but more on patient, hasty no I'm organized I plan & think first!

Ambitious. Influential in organizations. We all have ambitions but I want simple things in life! Influential could be yes and no!

Fun to be with. Loves to socialize. Oh yes!

Loves praises. Oh no! have a hard time handling praises!

Loves attention. No again, most times I want to be oblivious and be on my own it has do with age, I think hehehehe!

Loves to be loved. Who doesn't want to be loved?

Honest and trustworthy. Oh yes! Biggest lesson I've learned through the years is if something is said to me in confidence, I'l take it to the grave!

Not pretending. NOPE

Short tempered. I've learned to deal with it, I've improved.

Changing personality. NOPE

Not egotistic. NOPE

Take high pride in oneself. Yes and No

Hates restrictions. It depends, Yes and No

Loves to joke. Oh yes!

Good sense of humor. Oh yes!

Logical. I guess I am logical!

The Twelve Months

JANUARY: Stubborn and hard-hearted. Ambitious and serious. Loves to teach and be taught. Always looking at people’s flaws and weaknesses. Likes to criticize. Hardworking and productive. Smart, neat and organized. Sensitive and has deep thoughts. Knows how to make others happy. Quiet unless excited or tensed. Rather reserved. Highly attentive. Resistant to illnesses but prone to colds. Romantic but has difficulties expressing love. Loves children. Loyal. Has great social abilities yet easily jealous. Very stubborn and money cautious.

FEBRUARY: Abstract thoughts. Loves reality and abstract. Intelligent and clever. Changing personality. Attractive. Sexy. Temperamental. Quiet, shy and humble. Honest and loyal. Determined to reach goals. Loves freedom. Rebellious when restricted. Loves aggressiveness. Too sensitive and easily hurt. Gets angry really easily but does not show it. Dislikes unnecessary things. Loves making friends but rarely shows it. Daring and stubborn. Ambitious. Realizes dreams and hopes. Sharp. Loves entertainment and leisure. Romantic on the inside not outside. Superstitious and ludicrous. Spendthrift. Tries to learn to show emotions.

MARCH: Attractive personality. Sexy. Affectionate. Shy and reserved. Secretive. Naturally honest, generous and sympathetic. Loves peace and serenity. Sensitive to others. Loves to serve others. Easily angered. Trustworthy. Appreciative and returns kindness. Observant and assesses others. Revengeful. Loves to dream and fantasize. Loves traveling. Loves attention. Hasty decisions in choosing partners. Loves home decors. Musically talented. Loves special things. Moody.

APRIL: Active and dynamic. Decisive and hasty but tends to regret. Attractive and affectionate to oneself. Strong mentality. Loves attention. Diplomatic. Consoling, friendly and solves people’s problems. Brave and fearless. Adventurous. Loving and caring. Suave and generous. Emotional. Aggressive. Hasty. Good memory. Moving. Motivates oneself and others. Sickness usually of the head and chest. Sexy in a way that only their lover can see.

MAY: Stubborn and hard-hearted. Strong-willed and highly motivated. Sharp thoughts. Easily angered. Attracts others and loves attention. Deep feelings. Beautiful physically and mentally. Firm Standpoint. Needs no motivation. Easily consoled. Systematic (left brain). Loves to dream. Strong clairvoyance. Understanding. Sickness usually in the ear and neck. Good imagination. Good physical. Weak breathing. Loves literature and the arts. Loves traveling. Dislike being at home. Restless. Not having many children. Hardworking. High spirited. Spendthrift.

JUNE: Thinks far with vision. Easily influenced by kindness. Polite and soft-spoken. Having ideas. Sensitive. Active mind. Hesitating, tends to delay. Choosy and always wants the best. Temperamental. Funny and humorous. Loves to joke. Good debating skills. Talkative. Daydreamer. Friendly. Knows how to make friends. Able to show character. Easily hurt. Prone to getting colds. Loves to dress up. Easily bored. Fussy. Seldom shows emotions. Takes time to recover when hurt. Brand conscious. Executive. Stubborn.

JULY: Fun to be with. Secretive. Difficult to fathom and to be understood. Quiet unless excited or tensed. Takes pride in oneself. Has reputation. Easily consoled. Honest. Concerned about people’s feelings. Tactful. Friendly. Approachable. Emotional temperamental and unpredictable. Moody and easily hurt. Witty and sparkly. Not revengeful. Forgiving but never forgets. Dislikes nonsensical and unnecessary things. Guides others physically and mentally. Sensitive and forms impressions carefully. Caring and loving. Treats others equally. Strong sense of sympathy. Wary and sharp. Judges people through observations. Hardworking. No difficulties in studying. Loves to be alone. Always broods about the past and the old friends. Likes to be quiet. Homely person. Waits for friends. Never looks for friends. Not aggressive unless provoked. Prone to having stomach and dieting problems. Loves to be loved. Easily hurt but takes long to recover.

AUGUST: Loves to joke. Attractive. Suave and caring. Brave and fearless. Firm and has leadership qualities. Knows how to console others. Too generous and egoistic. Takes high pride in oneself. Thirsty for praises. Extraordinary spirit. Easily angered. Angry when provoked. Easily jealous. Observant. Careful and cautious. Thinks quickly. Independent thoughts. Loves to lead and to be led. Loves to dream. Talented in the arts, music and defense. Sensitive but not petty. Poor resistance against illnesses. Learns to relax. Hasty and trusty. Romantic. Loving and caring. Loves to make friends.

SEPTEMBER: Suave and compromising. Careful, cautious and organized. Likes to point out people’s mistakes. Likes to criticize. Stubborn. Quiet but able to talk well. Calm and cool. Kind and sympathetic. Concerned and detailed. Loyal but not always honest. Does work well. Very confident. Sensitive. Good memory. Clever and knowledgeable. Loves to look for information. Must control oneself when criticizing. Able to motivate oneself. Understanding. Fun to be around. Secretive. Loves leisure and traveling. Hardly shows emotions. Tends to bottle up feelings. Very choosy, especially in relationships. Systematic.

OCTOBER: Loves to chat. Loves those who loves them. Loves to take things at the center. Inner and physical beauty. Lies but doesn’t pretend. Gets angry often. Treats friends importantly. Always making friends. Easily hurt but recovers easily. Daydreamer. Opinionated. Does not care of what others think. Emotional. Decisive. Strong clairvoyance. Loves to travel, the arts and literature. Touchy and easily jealous. Concerned. Loves outdoors. Just and fair. Spendthrift. Easily influenced. Easily loses confidence. Loves children.

NOVEMBER: Has a lot of ideas. Difficult to fathom. Thinks forward. Unique and brilliant. Extraordinary ideas. Sharp thinking. Fine and strong clairvoyance. Can become good doctors. Dynamic in personality. Secretive. Inquisitive. Knows how to dig secrets. Always thinking. Less talkative but amiable. Brave and generous. Patient. Stubborn and hard-hearted. If there is a will, there is a way. Determined. Never give up. Hardly becomes angry unless provoked. Loves to be alone. Thinks differently from others. Sharp-minded. Motivates oneself. Does not appreciate praises. High-spirited. Well-built and tough. Deep love and emotions. Romantic. Uncertain in relationships. Homely. Hardworking. High abilities. Trustworthy. Honest and keeps secrets. Not able to control emotions. Unpredictable.

DECEMBER: Loyal and generous. Sexy. Patriotic. Active in games and interactions. Impatient and hasty. Ambitious. Influential in organizations. Fun to be with. Loves to socialize. Loves praises. Loves attention. Loves to be loved. Honest and trustworthy. Not pretending. Short tempered. Changing personality. Not egotistic. Take high pride in oneself. Hates restrictions. Loves to joke. Good sense of humor. Logical.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy thanksgiving everyone, here's two of my favorite thanksgiving quotes for all of you!


Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise; be thankful unto him, and bless his name. For the Lord is good..." Psalm 100:4, 5a


For flowers that bloom about our feet;
For tender grass, so fresh, so sweet;
For song of bird, and hum of bee;
For all things fair we hear or see,
Father in heaven, we thank Thee!


Ralph Waldo Emerson

Whoot I got my driver's license!

I have to tell everyone about this. Finally, after my second try I got my driver's license today.

I was more confident the first time I tried but unfortunately the old lady at DMV office failed me for two reasons: One she said I was erratic on stopping and taking off. Two I failed backing-up straight line I went over the next lane I wanted to argue but I know it will be an excercise in futility. On a happy note my three point turn was perfect. I've known friends who failed that part . I practiced backing up for over a week still I felt like I won't be able to pass another road test.

My husband psyched me up. He kept telling me don't sweat it, if you fail take again and again till I make it. So off we went to the DMV office. My biggest fear is to be paired with an official who is scrutinizingly strict like the old lady I was with last time. My husband gave me some last minute instructions. The only thing I could do was pray that the Lord will lead me to the right DMV personnel, wisdom, and protection.

Once inside the office this middle aged bubbly lady served me with much enthusiam, and courtesy. I was a nervous wrecked but I don't want to give the official that impression. The lady gave me the biggest moral boost by just being herself jovial, bubbly and warm. When I cranked up the car eased our way out to the main street my fear are all gone. I was natural. She told me to go straight and make a right turn at the stop light and she started complementing me that I was cautious of the speed limit, giving signal, looking over the shoulder, etc etc . I was instructed to make a 3 pt. turn and backing-up straight this time she started writing on her score sheet (I couldn't see it) I was on the verge of breaking down again but my good sense won over that. After 5 mins of driving around town she told me to head back to the office. Up to that time I had no idea if I nailed it.

When we got out of the car she asked me if I have money and I said my husband has the money she laughed. By then my husband said I guess that means a celebration. It was only then that I knew I passed it. After four months of incessant yakking and sassing from my husband about my driving I finally made it. I am now a legal driver even if hubby will suffer another over $1000 additional expenses for my insurance.

It was a big achievement for someone like me who have not even tried driving back home. Credit should go to my driving teacher my ever dearest husband. Thank you for the little patience, for all the tears I shed while you said I was stubborn for not listening to you, thank you for the two times we stopped talking for an hour because I was pissed off at you, thank you for making me feel like an idiot because I made so many wrong moves, thank you for the time I passed the written test but I forgot my glasses and we have to drive back home 20 mins both ways and you didn't say a word, thank you for you all the arguments we had over my driving (we never fought about something even for once till he started teaching me to drive). It all paid off. So where's the celebration, my dear you owe me bigtime? For that I want Hooters chicken wings and shrimp.

Went to Tennessee and left my cam!

I was out of blogworld for two days. Went on a road trip to Tennesse to pick-up the car that our friend Joe bought for his wife Jacque. It was an 8hr trip. We left saturday afternoon got to Lebanon, Tenesse around midnight stay in a hotel hit the road again the next morning for a 30 mins drive to suburban Smyrna Tennessee 10 mins outside of Nashville. Got Jacque's car and then we proceeded to Nashville (the home of country music).

We had Arby's breakfast on the way to Nashville then hit the road again, miss the exit to Grand Opry House drive another mile to the nearest exit. I love downtown Nashville and since we've talked about going to the famous Grand Opry and do a little sightseeing. Unfortunately we hit a snag, the road leading to Grand Opry was being repair we got lost in a dead-end. We turned back and my husband decided to hit I-40 and head back home.

I got so annoyed. I was quiet for about 100 miles out on the interstate. When we stopped to gas up he told Joe (who's tailing us on Jacque's new car) that I was pouting and barely talked to him because we didn't get to go around Nashville. Well, I finally decided to start talking to him when we get back to the car. My irratation to my husband was coupled with the camera that I left in the house. How can I forget my camera when it is my bestfriend.

Anyhow, it was a perfect ride the view's beautiful. Then the ever brat that I am told my husband that our dinner should be in "Hooters" or else I will not talk to him again for the rest of the trip back home. Two hours later I changed my mind because my husband told me I it's not a good time to eat hot wings or shrimp, he said the moment is not perfect for that. I don't know how he convinced me to have Olive Garden instead of Hooters when I've already set my heart to Hooters I guess it's the woman in me I get swayed easily by my husband suddenly I was a turncoat. Dinner was great I was recharged. Got home late, crushed and burn.

This morning when I woke-up I was a little bit upset that I forgot to bring my cam (couldn't get over it)and take pictures of our journey. I'll just have Nashville etched forever in my mind picture or no picture.

Politics, Prejudiced or Plain Ignorance!

I've been trying to find work for the last four months after I got my greencard. Going through the whole immigration process is crazy enough but what's more stressful I realized is finding a job and proving your worth around here.

At the beginning, my husband and I were confident that with my big city credentials and work experience it will be easy for me to find job around here. We're thinking that the community college or the country would be an ideal work for me since it is alot nearer for me than the city which requires an hour or more of driving.

Two weeks ago I got my fifth rejection letter from the community college. When I saw the envelope from the community college I knew it's going to be the "thank you for applying letter". Right then and there my tears just rolled down. I immediately called Jacque (my filipina friend) cried my heart out we ended up crying together.

What made me cry? It was out of frustration because the position is for Accountant and the requirement and the skills they need perfectly match mine even though they only need someone with an Associate Degree. What made it worst is that we heard from the grapevine the one hired was previously a co-worker of the boss. Of course we have a "mole" inside. The college website gave emphasis on equal opportunity employment so when I applied I was banking on that premise. It was an over-statement.

I had the same experience with the county too. I applied one time for Tax Assessor but since I have no experience here my application process stopped at the first level and wasn't able to get to the next step. A lady at the gym once told me that the county plays politics, she said by the time they call you for an interview they already have someone in mind for that certain position and everything is just plain "procedure". That is my problem around here. How can I compete with people who has all the right connections? Or how to win my prospective employer their trust that I can do the job. Trouble is they don't even know where the Philippines is. Now, I believe even educated Americans need lessons on geography.

Last week, my husband and I sent another application at the county this time the HR lady advised me to be patient and just keep sending resumes. She also articulated that they usually hire someone whose presently working even if it's just small jobs but not labor intensive fastfood thing. I wanted to refute her at the same moment but I restraint myself for fear that she might throw my resume on the bin. I have not mentioned it to my husband but my hunch is I'm doomed and I'll never get a call again. She's just tacky. I felt she's prejudiced and doesn't value hard work. I don't know.


I've also learned from visa journey.com (my support group) that first time immigrants will always have a hard time jump starting their careers. It takes time to be assimmilated into the whole immigration process and live like everyone else. I should also accept the fact that I am not alone in my predicament, countless others are on the same boat like me.

My job hunting experiences should be a poignant reminder to myself that as an immigrants I am like an extra-ordinary fish swimming in the shark infested ocean, it will be always tough to stay a float. I know that corporate world is a dog eat dog domain but I never knew that the state or government world is far worst.

Anyway I think the Lord has other plans for me, all I need is to trust him to lead me to the best job for me. As always I just need to sit still while he works magically on something thas is best for me no matter how elusive it may looks to me.

Harley ride again!

The weather has been warm today compare to the cold blast it had the last two weeks. I've been unable to do my routine because of the "friggin" (oooops excuse me for my language) cold the south has been experiencing lately. This sudden change in the weather is a welcome relief. My husband decided to fire up the Harley to get some some good ride. With a light fleece jacket on hand off we go.

As soon as we got into to the main road oh "yeah" the loud Harleys are once again taking over the roads. It was a beautiful day, the temp was only around 70's time to squeeze in a good Harley ride no wonder everyone is out riding. We had a blast riding around town, to the Harley shop. What a breeze a single day of good weather could bring to Harley lovers like us, wish most days would be like this.

I snapped some pictures for all of you. The frost we had last week, the changing of the trees, our front yard this rainy morning, our roads, etc.

Nostalgic!

This morning, while driving the car to the mailbox suddenly there's a chistmas song over the radio "Karen Carpenter" singing Merry Christmas Darling (I don't know if that's the correct title) it just hit me. I cried unabashedly it's because this is my frist Christmas away from home. I felt lonely since Christmas is my favorite holiday of all time.

I'l miss the kids on the street caroling or all the kids on their new clothes on christmas day, all the food during "noche buena", the christmas party at work complete with the christmas presentation all preparation and endless rehearsals last year our christmas theme was Broadway and you would'nt believe how talented filipinos are, the group that won did the musical Chicago it was superb (live singing), Miss Saigon, Footloose, Les Miserables, Cats, Rent and our group did Mama Mia (I was in the chorus).

I'l also miss the family gathering, reunions & parties, endless karaoke, puto bumbong, the smell of kastanyas, holiday traffic, all the little trinkets you I received from co-workers & friends, bonus, all the good food, the ayala decors or the malls.

Oh please bear with me I'm being nostalgic again. Talked to my mother last night she told me she has already put up her christmas tree and chistmas lights outside the house, the santa sleigh has been up outside and more decors are being prepared. I miss home but I'm happy that I'm not going to miss my husband this Christmas, life is good and so is sweet Jesus.

Merry Christmas everyone!

Shadow's Back for Good!

"We got a new addition to the family", Kelly announced to me one afternoon while he was busy doing something in the pasture and I was on my daily afternoon walk. I shrugged went back to my business but at the back of my mind I was thrilled thinking "great Steph's finally pregnant". Wrong! After Kelly finished his work he drove his four wheeler in front of me and said Shadow's (his horse) coming home and after a brief talked he told me he's on his way to get him.

Thirty minutes later Kelly called me at home and told me he got Shadow at the pasture. He asked me if I wanted to get out of the house to see him. I hurriedly head outside to see Shadow back home and was shocked to see two horses. So we got Shadow and Little Joe as the newest addition to our growing family. I've never seen Shadow before but my husband talked alot about him especially when Kelly was still in active duty in Iraq. Shadow's their baby. Two years ago he sold it to one of his buddies who apparently got a dozen other horses. NC weather this year has been so dry that the drought has not produced enough stock of hay plus it has become too expensive so Shadow was given back to Kelly.

I've never been around or near any horse back home. Now that I have new additions to our ever growing family and keep me company these horses are a delight to see them chewing on the grass and look at me while I do my usual rounds (actually walk) in the afternoon. I even volunteered to Kelly that I'l feed him every morning. As usual my ever "doubting thomas" husband said how can I feed them when I stay late in bed everyday plus I'm a scary cat. He's correct though it's a big responsibility caring for 6 young'uns under my wings (two grandbabies Colby and Colton, two beagle puppies Oscar and Fred, and two horses Shadow and Lil' Joe). It's a hard fact that our family is getting bigger every now and then.

The last three days I 've given them his horse treats. I was thrilled when he took the treats on the palm of my hand and nibble on it like crazy. We bonded, now everytime I call his name he comes near me. Horses are the gentlest animals I've known but if you're not careful they'll buck and you'll get hurt. My husband has given me some instructions on how to feed them or get inside the "wired" fence. I seriously took it by heart because I've heard horror stories of broken limbs or accidents involving these gentle creatures.

Then realization hit me, I've never dream in my life I'll be living in a country almost like a farm or to bluntly put it live life like old retirees (still too young for that) around animals. We got squirrels, deers, rabbits, racoon, beaver, fox (never seen one tho'), possum, and every animal in the movie "Barnyard" plus all these birds that I've only seen or read in the books. Oh what a simple joy all these numbnuts could give to a weary soul like me. I felt invigorated just talking about them, who said country living is no fun eh!

Little Macy's Benefit Ride!

Last saturday was the annual benefit ride for Little Macy. The cold weather has not deterred motorcycle enthusiasts from joning the benefit ride including this filipina who despite the leather jacket was still fighting the biting cold (that's what leather chaps are for honey!). I dread this weather but for little Macy's benefits I'l do it again or over and over.

So, who's Macy? She's a rambunctious, innocent and lovable four year old luekemia patient. I've known her because her family sits in front of us at church. At sunday services little Macy's presence is always a welcome relief since she always has this ready, sweet, infectious smile for everyone. She's everyone's little sweetheart.

Anyways, Macy's ride was a good one. She got a pretty good size of crowd. The food's great and one more great thing about the ride was the company of friends and fellowship with Harley enthusiasts. I didn't win the poker run but I won a special door prize which is a set of car cleaner (not bad). I have no idea how much the ride generated but for sure it will help Little Macy's hospitalization and medicine expenses. So here's a little thank you note for all the people who came to ride with us see y'all again next year. Thank you too Little Macy for warming our heart, our body and our soul on a cold morning ride.

The Rotten Philippine Politics!

For the last two days I've been itching myself to write something about the state of Philippine politics but everytime I start to write my highblood pressure shuts up that I end up writing nothing. Three days later here I am wanting a piece of my mind about it. The news that former corrupt President Estrada (guilty by the Sandigambayan) was given presidential pardon by the Pres. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo or GMA was to me a plain mockery of the Philippine judicial system.

• It is sickening, the thought that anyone who plundered the wealth of the nation that left the masses poor is given clemency for the sake of unity, gimmeeee a break! Actually a year before I left the Philippines I have already stopped subscribing to the Philippine Daily Inquirer (the major broadsheet back home) because it's the same news I think I was already loosing hope that I will ever see Philippines politics change for the better, I'm resigned to the fact that it will not happen in my lifetime. I lost hope for the youth that I thought would be the factor in installing major changes. I've seen it all, two bloodless revolution been there, done that and still nothing. I was talking to another filipina about ERAP pardon and she just said "good thing we are no longer in the country, Glenda Philippine politics sucks". Like it was a consolation, I don't know I think I will have to agree with her.
• I remember a conversation with a fellow churchmate when I was still back home. She said the problem with the filipinos is that we don't submit to authorities and yes we need to submit to authorities but what if the authorities is the one who have their own vested interest above the people, are we just going to sit down and watch. Also, I remember the early 2000's when GMA just started her office from ousting Estrada and her corruption cleansing is a laudible idea and it was a hit that time. Everyone's email has been flooded by the pictures of people in government living an affluent life despite working for Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) or the Bureau of Customs (BOC) that doesn't pay much. It's big-time corruption, I wonder if they ever got persecuted or they case has died of natural death like the many cases involving the rich.
• My feeling for Philippines politics was worsened when my husband and I watched this story about the rescue of Gracia Burnham. I lost track of the title something about Jihad and it was in History channel, meaning it was seen all over the world. It was embarassing, the in-fighting in the military, how they bangled the rescue operation in the name of "credit", how the army took part of the ransom money, and how the military plan killed two hostages Martin Burnham and Edibora Yap from friendly fire. The military's experience was evidently poor probably because the training money was pocketed by the officials thus putting the lives of the soldiers on the line. It was a shame, my husband being a law enforcement officer was telling me how funny it was, imagine that. Can you blame me for giving up on my country and loosing hope.

• It's just too much politics and corruption back home and it worries me that my most people have chosen to leave the country and migrate. I've known about fifty people from my circle (close friends, co-worker, high school and college classmates) that have either migrated to the US, Canada, UK and Australia between the years 2001-2007 their main reason is they don't think they could afford a better life for their family especially their children most of them has lost hope in the people running our country and I am one of them. Thinking about it makes me go to the bathroom and puke, excuse me I need to run.

• PS, that's our picture during the EDSA 2001 uprising, I was working at the 15th Flr. of the Galleria Bldg., In EDSA where the event took place, those were the days!

Cakes Anyone!

Last night we went to High Falls Elementary for their Halloween Party. I forgot my camera so I was able to take pictures of the kids in their costumes. It was a little family affair and as usual our boys Colby and Colton had the time of their lives with all the games for kids and food.

I joined the cake walk and this was what I won. The caramel cake I won when I first joined I told everyone it's a beginner's luck. We've already been eating cake for last weeks. We just finished the whole cheesecake Jacque gave us last sunday and I still have a chocolate cake I baked last week. My problem now is how to consume these two cakes with only two people in our household. I think Fred and Oscar will once again have a field day or else I'll gain 10lbs eating them in two weeks. Now who wants some raise you hands and I'l share these with you.

Trip to the North Carolina Mountains!

My husband and I together with the another filipino couple (Joe and Jacque) decided to embarked on a day trip to the mountains. It was just on a whim. I called Jacque to tell her about our trip and if they have nothing to do on that day they can join us. Jacque said she'll call her husband and after a while they said they both wanted to go with us.

Two weeks ago, my husband has already planned on taking me to the Apple festival at N. Wilkesboro, two hrs drive from our place. We decided to cancel it and instead have a long drive to the famous NC mountains. Last sunday at 7:30am, the "Pinehurst" wanderers (that's what I named our group in honor or our famous golf course in our county) off we went to the mountain in one car to save gas. We only stopped at Hardees at Seagrove for breakfast and gas refill and anoter restroom break close to to Asheville.

We got to Asheville around 11:00 am from then on it was a long and beautiful trip. At this time of the year, mountain is simply breathtaking. There are so many overlook where you could stop to check out the view of the mountain from certain vantage point. There were overlook that are teeming with tourist thus finding a good parking spot is like looking for a needle in a haystock (a little exaggeration but it's true). On these cases, you'll just have to drive on and get to another overlook. The long Blueridge Parkway drive was a learning experienced. I especially love the tunnels and via duct it's an engineering marvel. My husband said the mountain stretches from Virginia, Tenessee, NC, SC and Georgia.

I enjoyed watching other tourist on their top-down cars or some motorcycle enthusiasts in pair enjoying the ride. My husband said next year we'll make another trip to the other side of the mountains on our Harley (he did it many times before). It was almost five hours of driving coupled with sightseeing when we suddenly realized we have not eaten a complete meal. It was made worst by those people we see stopping on the side of the road having a picnic or sitting comfortable on their picnic chair eating. The other filipino couple that were with us (Joe and Jacque or J&J) were also mesmerized by the scenery that we all forgot about food. My husband has picked on Jacque and me for not preparing something to eat along the way. We only have birds junk (nuts) that at least helped us last that long. Another dilemma that we encountered was we almost ran out of gas after over 200 miles of driving. I began to panic especially when I saw the red low fuel light while my husband was cool, calm and collected. We missed the turn going to Boone because we had a good time laughing, story telling and watching the mountain views.

After 15 mins of driving and no Boone sign in sight that's when we decided to take out the "gps" and that "sucker" took us right to the nearest gas station in the middle of nowhere. We filled up the gas and another hour and half it took as to the door of Dan'l Boone Restaurant. Before we got inside, we queued for about 20 mins because the restaurant was packed to the brim and waited for another 5 mins to find us a table for 4. It was worth the wait because the food was soooooo good, homecooked style and we all pig-out. Boone is a beautiful, quaint little town in the mountains and since it was already 9pm when we got out of the restaurant we all decided to head back home. Got home past 11, it's worth the long drive I had a great time I hope J & J too.

If anyone is interested to see the mountains (which I recommend) please check this website http://www.visitnc.com/where_to_go_mountains.asp..... Goodnight, I'm signing off!

Christmas in October!

Yesterday, when my husband and I got home around 6:00pm I saw a big package on the porch. It was already opened so I was thinking the mailman has probably checked what's inside of it but after much investigation my ever snoopy dog "Oscar" tore-off the first box. Well it was raining the whole day and Mr. Mailman probably thought it would be safe to leave it in the porch without knowing how "smart my puppies are" good thing is they didn't tear it up to pieces or else a big "war" is in the offing in our quiet house and their "Dada" can't take up the cudgels for them. Their asses will be whoopped, fortunately for them my box is still in one piece.

Anyway, I got so excited you know it doesn't take much to stir my interest up I knew something good is inside the box. It was a big box and inside is another box wrapped in yellow gift wrap and lace. It's sweet. I went to check it, it was on my name but the sender said it came from Macy's Chicago. I knew it came from Roanne (my college buddy) because she's the only one I know from Chicago plus she works at Macy's. True enough, inside was a Ralph Lauren beddings complete set comforter, pillow cases, shams, flat and fitted sheets the only thing it doesn't have is a skirt. Inside I got the note, "Best wishes" love Roanne and Manny, Oh it's a wedding presents but we got married last April. I already put it up last night and it's pretty, I love it.

Yey I'm happy and it didn't end there. This morning, apparently there was another box and this time it was inside my car since it's still raining Mr. Mailman probably put it there rather than the porch (he learned fast) so Oscar wasn't able to mess with Mama's christmas presents (Mr. Mailman outsmart my pups this time hehehehe). My box has a complete set of Lord and Taylor make-up kit, Dior j'adore eau de perfum, frango dark chocolate with Teddy Bear (for my niece Pau-pau), another Lord and Taylor accessories (necklace & earrings). With that I got my early Christmas presents in October. Thank you so much Roanne, I'l wait for my Nine West boots (size 6) and my hobo bag in December hehehe. I'm so grateful I love it all!

Btw, I'm still waiting for our wedding rings, my friends at Bahrain promised to get us one I hope they're reading this hihihihi. I think at the rate things are going it's about time to tell "Dada" we need to buy our own, they have stopped talking to me. It's alright they're still my friends but this time if I get rich di ko sila pauutangin ehehehehe!

Colby, Colton and the big wide world!

• 
  
  It was my second day at home when my husband's grandsons came to the house for a visit. Colby and Colton, age 9 and 6 usually come to the house to just stay and talk to their grandpop. Well since it was a friday and they have no school the next day I told my husband to call their mom so they can stay in the house and sleep over that night. Tabitha said yes and the next thing I knew the boys were camping in the house.


• 
  
  These boys doesn't know me from Adam. It was our first meeting and when my husband introduced us to each other the boys started firing me with barrage of questions. How did you get here? You're from where? It was funny how Colton questioned me about my age by asking me "How many are you?" instead of "How old are you?" All those kids stuff that you have to carefully explain to them and in my most teacherly fashion I told them that I'm filipina and that's what you called people from my country which is the Philippines. I thought I explained myself to them real good.


• 
  
  Then came a surprised, Colton's curiuosity didn't stop there, he took my husband aside and asked him point blank "ny pop are you marrying a mexican" my husband was caught off-guard and laughed about it. He told him that I'm not Mexican, I'm filipino. I actually show them the Philippines in a map and Colton still quizzed me about my riding a big jet and he enthusiastically told me he wish he could ride a big airplane someday. Such a big wish for a small innocent boy.


• 
  
  The next weekend that they stay with me for the night they brought a checkered board that we could play. I prepared them fried chicken and pizza. Colton said I made the best friend chicken in world and he said it with all seriousness. That's a nice compliment but I didn't tell him that we bought the chicken at the grocery, baked it, and presto it's friend chicken. We played checkered board and Colton in his usual 6 yr old would not even win with me but I have to let him win some and I keep telling him that I couldn't let him beat me all the time because it will hurt my "ego". He loves it, I think in his little mind he's happy that he gets to win over someone much older than him. We bonded quickly.


• 
  
  After that they always stay with me on weekends. We would take them to the movies, to the pizza parlor, to Wal-mart or to just about any activity that suits kids. They stay with me most time last summer since I'm not working. My husband said I have the patience of Job with kids. Well to begin with, I love kids and my main reason why I let them stay with me some weekends that my husband is at work is the fact that it's hard to be alone most times. To me it matters a whole lot that I get to talk to someone even if it is just a kid rather than being alone with no one to talk to. You get to laugh, do something silly, run, play or have a conversation and learn from them. These are two active boys. Colby who's older is hyper active while Colton the baby is very laid back. Both boys have a broad sphere of interests ranging from toys to balls to machines. Colby knows all about country singers and songs. One time I saw him watching country videos and singing the songs of Rascal Flatts, Toby Keith, or Tim Mc Graw while Colton's interest is football but both of them love baseball. Most especially Colton's love the "hooters" chicken wings I don't know if that is really the case.


• 
  
  There were so may incidents that I learned so many things from them it doesn't matter how mundane it could be . They are wide open being country boys, they play outside and get dirtied. What I especially like about them is the closeness and the love they both have for each other. I've never seen them apart and they always look after one another. I remember what Tabitha said when Colton broke his arm from the trampulin last spring. When Colton fell and started crying because of the pain Colby was comforting his little brother stroking him gentle saying Colton it's gonna be alright, edging him we're here for you. I also, remember when I ran over my puppy and cried they both came to me, reassuringly said stop crying Glenda we love you with a big hugged and I cried more. But sometimes they'll pick on me and tell me you ran over and killed your dog, well they're kids.


• 
  
  Another unforgetable story happened two weeks ago in the car while going to Asheboro for the fall festival. Colby suddenly burst out saying "Glenda, I found you a job. It got the same people like you and speaks like you. They have Mexicans, Japanese, and all other people over there. It's called Tokyo Express, yeah we went there". My husband and I laughed so hard. I told him thank you for the referral Colby I'l check on that. Most times when I'm alone and I remember his words it never ceased me from grinning.


• 
  
  We know sometime soon they will have a life of their own and paint their own world in thier own hues. They will grow up, will have different interests, more freedom, develop friendship with some local boys, and the visit will be less (sad). But in the meantime we want them to be kids, enjoy life as it is. My only wish is for them not to grow too fast so we could still enjoy them as they make that transition from being mere boys to men. We know they will make it good later on in life because they both have a good head above their shoulders and good family support. Our only concern is that it's a big world and everyone's vulnerable to just about anything but one thing is constant we will always be there to support protect and see them through. That's Colby and Colton our little rascals.

Welcome to our new 2008 Harley Davidson Road Glide

After a month of waiting our new Harley is finally home. Last friday, my husband and I went down to the Harley shop to check on his new babe. True enough, it is already there and ready for take off. It is so pretty in all it's red candy sunglow color. It was even made perfect by the white tire and the new chrome fork my husband ordered to replace the original ones that comes with the bike.

That Harley shop at Sandhills is really a superb place. Darrall (the son's owner) treated my husband like royalty. The most important thing is he gave him a good deal with the bike and I will not go into specifics lest he gets busted by his Dad (hehehehe). He even gave me a free Harley shirt to go with the bike (way to go!).

We drove it around the area and when we got back to the shop my ever meticulous husband said he heard some rumbling on his front tire. He told Darrall about it and he said he'll have someone to check it. We headed home since it was past 2:00 o'clock in the afternoon and my husband will be working that night. He called his son Kelly to pick up the Harley and bring it home.

Lo and behold, it got home the same day. My husband woke up early the next day. I could see the excitement on his face especially when he asked me to ride with him in town. I begged off. I actually want to give him time to bond with his new babe. Show it off to his friends and fellow Harley enthusiasts.

The next day which is a sunday, after our usual lunch and a little talked with her mom we drove the Harley around. It was a sweet ride. I can't complain I told my husband I felt like I was riding a car (meaning it's so comfy). Also, it was a real head turner. I saw this guy who rolled down his car window to look at the Harley. When we parked it at the ice cream shop I've seen people started to mill around her and talk about her. Someone even manage to ride and I overheard someone say it's hooooooot.

Oh no, our new Harley is generating a little buzz. I don't like all the attention but I'll have to learn to deal with it. I just want to enjoy the ride and be oblivious to the crowd, so cheers to our new 2008 Harley Davidson Road glide!

Happy Birthday Nanay and Tatay!

Oct. 8 is my mother's birthday and my father's on the 10th. They are both 66 and 70 yrs old. I am writing this as a tribute to my parents who I am indebted to for the rest of my life. Aside from my husband, my parents are my life. I love them to death. I am forever grateful for the sacrifices they both endured to nurture and raise seven children.

We didn't have anything growing up. And we are no different from any other "filipino" family that value education and hardwork. It paid off, I can say that my parents has raised us well. All college educated no one's into drug or any other kind of trouble with the law. We are still not rich but we are sure that we will all have a bright future ahead of us.

If I could only give the world to my parents I will do it in a heartbeat. I want them to enjoy the things that they didn't get to experience while rearing seven kids. All they did was work hard to the point that it's the kids first before themselves. Job well done nanay and tatay, God has blessed you tremendously. You will always have my respect and my love. The wheel of kindness will roll and it's now your turn to sit down and enjoy the world. I promise you I will give it both to you.

I love you both and happy birthday!

Tale of two beagle Puppies Oscar and Fred!

Last May, my husband decided to put our Doberman (Adolph) up for adoption. He's so big over 100 lbs considering that he's just an eight month old puppy at that time. And for someone as small as me feeding him or opening or locking him up on his pen is a major task. Boy he's a sleek and beautiful dog and you cannot discount his loyalty especially to my husband.

But our main reason why we have to let him go is because Adolph has become so destructive. He tore up to pieces anything that will get on his way. He tore up to pieces our water hose and the neighbors too. He shredded Kelly's bedsheets that he's suppose to bring to the laundry and mind you it's an expensive one. He sunk his teeth on Kelly's drop cord that we ended up replacing it and his waterhose too. We often get a call from Kelly telling his daddy that Adolph destroyed this and that. I think the last straw was when Adolph killed Kelly's kitten. Tabitha told me that she's never seen Kelly so distraught and broken hearted in her life until that incident.

JP my husband's liuetenant at work has took Adolph in. We're happy that he's with a good family that spoils him and care for him. We have since gotten two beagle puppies Fred and Dallas.

Time flies so fast. I remember when we first got Fred and Dallas then, they were just a teeny weeny six weeks old beagle puppies. They're so cute. My husband's officer gave them to us when their dog gave birth to 12 puppies.

They almost didn't make it one time last June when they got sick. Fred was so weak and suffered diarrhea. Although Dallas wasn't as bad as Fred you could tell that he too is ill. I got so worried that they'll not make it through another day. Lynn's in a meeting that day and when he got home around 1:00pm I told him about Fred's condition. He called the Vet but the doctor wasn't in the office yet. Lynn told the Vet Assistant that he suspected it was "parvo" and she informed him that there's nothing that they could do and bringing them to the Vet's office would only be an exercise in futility much so, it will cost us alot of money. She said we could try buying a milk replacer with colostrum.

We immediately drove to Asheboro and bought that milk replacer. When we got home we tried feeding them through syringe and I painstakingly took charge in waking up in the middle of the night and forced them especially Fred to swallow the milk replacer. For two days it was a routine. The third day was a breeze. My puppies has improved alot . They're both back to their old selves running around and finally eating their dog food.

After a week of my puppies bout with that God knows what kind of desease (to this day we don't know if it was parvo or just a case of weaning them too early from their mama). One Wednesday morning around 10:00 am my husband was washing his truck on the other end of the building when I decided to drive our car and washed it too. I saw Fred on the porch sleeping. I didn't know where Dallas was. After washing the car I parked the car and my husband and I went inside the house for lunch.

As we were having lunch Caleb (our 16 yr old grandson) knocked and asked us what happened to Dallas. We said he's sleeping outside. Caleb said I don't think so, go outside and check. My husband went outside and there was Dallas dead on the driveway. It was my fault. I didn't check him when I drove the car to the building to wash it. I ran over him. It stopped my world for a minute. My husband took his lifeless body to the back yard with the boys(Colby,Colton,Caleb) in tow to bury him. Our day was ruined, we didn't finish our lunch and I ran to the bathroom locked myself in and cried. It was a tragedy and to this day I still feel guilty about that accident. I stop dwelling about it because I know it happened for a reason and accident do happen even to the most careful person. The important thing is I learned a lesson in a painful way. I will always have Dallas fondest memories.

The next day Lynn and I got a new beagle to replace Dallas. I named him Oscar. He looks exactly like Fred totally different from lemon and white color that Dallas got. Now that Fred's grown to about Oscar's size I have a hard time distinguishing one from the other. The first thing that I have to look to differentiate them from each other is their tail. Fred's tail sticks up all the time and Oscar is always pointing downward.

I can say they're smart especially Oscar. He's such a sweetheart eventhough Fred's the cutest between the two of them. It's Oscar who's the leader of the two. Oscar's faster and Fred's the usual follower. Oscar hates taking a bath. Everytime I put them in the tub to shower he barks and whines continuously while Fred chills out. They're adorable. We bought them a bed and it's getting smaller for the two of them. They have toys to play with. It's funny how they get to play with their teddy bear in yard. Sometimes I'l find the bear under the car, beside the tree or else it will be sitting in the porch. I love it when they get to play with real people's toys. I enjoy watching them.

I let them ride with me in the car to get our mail. It's our routine and they love it. I feed them scrap food. My husband said it will ruined their palate and would stop eating dog food. Well I do it behind his back and they like it, it made them fat especially Fred. His big belly is starting to swell. I actually give them table food as reward tho' we buy them beef sticks dog treats. My husband said I spoiled them so much. I think, I do. They make my day. They follow me everywhere I go or aggravate me no end. They're my walking buddies well Oscar is, Fred is too slow to walk with me. I usually leashed them but now everytime I do my afternoon walk I just let them follow me.

Oscar is a sweet dog and he's such a giving and protective big brother to Fred. I remember one time when I couldn't find them and I would call out loud thier names Oscar would emerge from the woods in a spin while it takes Fred forever to get out of the woods. It's funny because they're totally opposite. Fred is very laidback or plain lazy (sleeps alot) while Oscar is always on the move. I think it's Fred's short legs or I think I just "babyed " him to much since I really got him when he's too young while we got Oscar when he's 2.5 mos old and has a mind of his own. I also think I have over protected Fred. If he gets out of my sight I hollered out for his name and he comes to me. He wasn't able to explore his world on his own until we got Oscar.

Now they have a life of their own. They go down to Kelly's up to mama's and Tabitha's. It doesn't worry me much anymore because I know they will always head back home. And home is where they will always be cared for, feed and protected. Oscar and Fred are my two beagle puppies and their Dada and I love them so much.

Bored!

The last three days I was depressed for no apparent reason, well yes there were reasons. I felt lonely because I've been here in the US for seven months and I have the same routine day in and day out. In other words I am bored to death. I want a job, I told my husband when I called him at work one night and discussed some probable job prospectives that were set before me.


Of course, that simple conversation about a possible job opportunity in the city one hour away from our place didn't stop on that phone but turned into a frenzy of non-stop email exchanges. It came to a point that I told him I wanted to come back home, he said do whatever will make you happy or words to that effect. I always tell that to my husband, threathened him that I'l be going home if he won't give what I want. He's always been good to me, he actually spoiles me and I shouldn't complain.


You know the saying "an idle mind is the devil's workshop". When you're bored you get to think of so many things, most them are horrendous and you thought that the whole world is conniving against you. A friend's email has this bible verse Psalms 46:10 "Be still and know that I am God". Then it hits me, I stopped and reflect on God's words and I felt good. I know the Lord hasn't abondoned me nor wasn't he listening. He has blessed me abundantly each day. The fact that I was able to wake up each morning, get to do the things that I like to do like sleep all day, read, surf the net or the liberty of just sitting outside the porch doing nothing and just listen to the birds and play with my puppies. Plus, the time spent with my husband which I should savor while I'm still not working is a marvelous blessings.


With nothing to do, a time alone with yourself should make you submit into a little introspection. What kind of life have I been living all this time? I've been working all my life in Manila. I know what hard work is, I was raised into it. I value it. Who says life isn't boring? It can be and in my quest to overcome boredom I get to discover so many things about myself. One is that is I can actually write or blog which I've been dreaming for the longest time. I get to experiment on cooking especially baking (blew it twice and my puppies had a field day eating my self concocted cake recipe). I get to value money more, with no work and one paycheck on our coffers I only buy what is necessary and what we can consume. Even the simplest things, I found out that I love the smell of newly mowed grass never knew it before. I get to read the bible again and immerse in God's words. I can say I am an eternal optimist and what I'm going through at the moment "this too shall pass".


Truly the lord will open your eyes to see his blessings and let him work in your life. Today, I also got a blessing from a friend who wants to remain anonymous, she sent me $100 on the mail. She said it's a wedding presents from her. Blessings come in many different forms and circumstances. Most times our human nature fail to recognize it even though it has been right in front of us for the longest time. It happens to me countless times. I should just sit down and count my blessings. It's our choice but to me I chose to buckle down and count. I got a lot from the Lord. Actually I couldn't count it with my little hands.


Discover it today and it will make you happy. My prayer for everyone is this...


Psalms 46:10 "Be still and know that I am God". Heavenly Father, I am sorry that today I almost did not recognize you. Lost in my own thoughts about the unanswered prayers you reminded me that I should be still and let you work your own way into our lives. Father God I lift up to you people who have lost hope in life, lost hope in you, doubted you. I pray that you touch their heart and let them realize that you are our living God and that you'll answer our prayers in your own time. Give us a thankful heart for all the countless blessings we fail to recognize and that you made it all possible. Sorry for my whining and compalining Lord, please forgive me. In Jesus mighty name, Amen!

I Survived Night Driving!

We had set saturday night this week for our movie date. We went to see the movie 3:10 to Yuma last night. It was a good movie and we both enjoyed it.


Flashback scenes before going to the movie. Checked out the net for the schedules of the cinemas at Randolph Mall at Asheboro and Sandhills Cinemas at Southern Pines. Asheboro is less than 30 mins drive from home while Southern Pines is 45 mins away. 3:10 to Yuma is not available at Randolph Mall so we decided to go to Southern Pines and set to see the 7:15pm screening.


As usual, I'm the designated chaueffer. We left the house around 5:45 and I manuevered my way to the country road on my big buddy Buick. Between driving and singing my worship song in the car. We changed route this time. We used Lakey Siding Road from the usual Old Plank Road which I became so familiar with that I've memorized every curve it has. I'm scared of Lakey Siding Road because it's narrow, has this very steep and curvy road. I dread passing through that road. It makes every bones in my body chill and I feel that it will take time for me to get used to it.


I think it was a smooth ride and don't ask my husband about it because he'll never compliment me despite getting to our destination in one piece hehehehe Yes it was a good ride, with my occasional drifting and steering wheel wobbling or my speed limit dropping off I'm happy with my performance this time. Indeed practice makes perfect. We made it to Highway 2427 then 215 and then Southern Pines. Oh I also hate the traffic especially at the circle which I have to yield to ongoing traffic. I survived that one too.


Ok now we're at Southern Pines, hubby said he's hungry and we have to swing by the Chinese Resto to have dinner. I decided against it. I ate sandwhich and left over salad from the other night before we left home (while he's taking a nap). We went instead to Fresh Market to buy a roasted beef sandwhich and drink for my already starving husband. We like Fresh Market it's beautiful, a little expensive, and I guess it's a high-end store that caters to the mostly rich Yankees that has migrated to Southern Pines and it's neighboring golf course villages.


We got my husband's take-out food. Now the trouble was I didn't bring my purse and food is not allowed inside the theather. Had I have it with me we could simple hide it inside and he could have a good time eating a roast beef sandwhich inside the cinemas. Well what he did was eat while I steered the car to the parking lot. I found a good spot away from other cars. At the far end corner but unfortunately someone got beside me that quick or I was slow that I found out we're no longer alone in my little corner. Geez hubby's eatin' while I was drivin' has to be careful and give him time to munch on his big take-out that can't be taken inside the movie house hehehehe

Got to the cinema and the movie was finished by 9:30.


Now it's night time driving for me. It's my first time. As usual Lynn has to help me get out of the maze while I gingerly zigzag my way out of the parking lot and off to the road. It was a struggle for me. I literally prayed the whole time that I was driving. My eyes give me additional trouble or so I guess but I think I was finding excuse for my sloppy driving or I was uncomfortable driving at night. There's the usual cussing from my husband who totally think that Colby his (9 yr old grandson) is far better driver than me. My errors as my husband put it, are too many to count. I clicked the highbeam light together with right hand signal and within distance from another car on the other side of the road (it was a dangerous thing mind you) or I was too fast while passing a state trooper and boy you could imagine the horror on my husband's face. I still get the usual flank. You can't be sensitive with him or else the marriage will be out in the drain and I'l be heading home ASAP back to the Phils.


He has constantly chastised me that I actually got used to it or I'm just taking it all in stride. Most times tears will just roll down my face while driving while your husband thought your a "dummy" for not listening to his yakking. "Give me some gas", or "you're drifting to the yellow lane", "what's that dumb move" and all that dialogue that one time pushed me to the edge and put the brakes, stopped on the side of the road and slammed the door and moved to the passenger seat. There was total silence for an hour. After the heat subsided I reclaimed my driving seat.


This night was no exception, I was thinking that he will be good to me considering that this was the first time that I will be doing it. He wasn't that bad at all he didn't let me go through my dreaded Lakey Siding Road. Still, we managed to get home safely. And I survived night driving!