My Realizations From The Year That Was, 2015

2015 has been a very challenging for us. It was a tough year, financially, physically and emotionally, for us a family. But 2015 was a year when God showed me how blessed I am. God also made me realized and learned lessons the hardest way. But it's all worth because that made me a better me, a much better me.

Now let me share with you my realizations from the year that was.

A mother has the power to bring peace inside the family.

This year, our family's relationship has been put into a test. The conflict between me and my brother started in 2014 after he had dragged us to his financial problem. But we are very lucky because we still have our mother. She has the power to bring peace between us. I realized that no matter what, family will always be a family. Thanks to our mother.

Money is the easiest problem.

Maybe some of you will disagree but based on what we have gone through this year, it's the financial problem that was the easiest. Easiest because money can be replaced especially when you are hardworking. Money can easily be earned unlike when you have problem with health or relationships.


Never give up on people you love.

When my brother and I had a conflict because of financial issues, I almost give up on him. But because of my mother and because I love him, I stood my him. Thank God that before the 2015 ends almost all of his financial obligations are settled. I just can't imagine where he is now if I left him instead. I am praying that he also learned his lessons and change for the better.


Being a mother is the toughest job ever but the most rewarding one.

It's been almost 6 years since I became a mom. But I am still learning everyday (check out the 11 most important lessons I have learned as a mom)  and that everyday, I am experiencing that thing we call mommy guilt. 

Just this holiday, my son asked me when will my job end. I asked him why, then replied so I can just stay at home na lang daw. I asked him why he wanted me to stay at home, he replied with "para po may mommy ako maghahatid at susundo sa akin sa school." He added innocently, "kasi niloloko ako ng mga classmates ko, wala daw ako mommy at daddy." Such conversation with my son always break my heart. All I can do for now is hug him and tell him it will happen in God's time. I am thankful that I have a very understanding and independent son.

Whether you are a working or stay at home mom, I know you will agree that being a mom is the toughest job. At habang lumalaki ang mga anak natin, lalo nagiging mahirap ang ating trabaho. But I realized it's the most rewarding job, especially if you have a family who appreciates everything you are doing.

We can always make up with your kids, but we cannot bring back the time.

Like what I have said, I am thankful to have a very understanding son. When we failed to fulfill our promise to accompany him to his first pajama party, we made bawi by spending quality time with him at the park. He was so happy na kahit papaano nabawasan yun guilt na nararamdaman ko.

Actually, we can always make up with our kids naman. But I realized no matter how many toys and suhol I will give my son, I can't bring back the lost time. So I always do my best to spend time with him because I know he's growing fast and soon will not need me the same way he needed me now.

Supporting and loving my son unconditionally.

I know my son is makulit but I don't know why there's a slight prickling in my heart every time I hear that word to describe him. Every time he will bring home a sad or mad face from school, I can not help but ask myself if I am failing in raising a good child. Thinking I can guide him more, I even told Daddy that maybe I should stay at home. Daddy said we should give him time because he's just 5. I realized that my son is my son and I don't need to change him. He will grow to be the best man he will be as long as we are here to support and love him unconditionally. Also, I should not worry and stress myself because our little boy even if they call makulit is a very bright kid. Just recently, he was chosen to represent his school and placed 9th on his his first spelling bee contest. I can't remember achieving such when I was his age, hehe. 

Saving more than spending.

Surprisingly, even we were challenged financially, we have more savings in 2015. We have finished 4 52-week money challenge for Daddy and I, for Matt, for my Nanay and for my in-laws, Now naman we are saving money through envelope system. Saving is one of my goals for 2015 and it feels great that I have actually reached it even if we have financial issues.

Quality blogging and more blog opportunities

Quality blogging is one of my goals in 2015. I promised to be just myself and forget about if I can't write well. Mahalaga naiintindihan ang gusto kong sabihin. Thankfully, 2015 brought us unexpected blessings from our blogs. Brands are starting to contact us and we received more quality and high-paying blog opportunities last year. Nakakataba ng puso lalo na kapag nalalaman kong may naglalaan ng oras na magbasa ng blog ko. Yun yung nakaka-inspire. From the bottom of my heart, thank you my dear readers. Mahal ko kayo! (with #pabebewave).

And to the brands who have trusted us, thank you, thank you po! Hope to still work with you in 2016.

S&R Membership Shopping 

McDonald's Philippines

Over all, I realized that the highlights of my 2015 are not about material things. Rather, the highlights are the lessons I have learned from all the happenings in 2015. And the best thing I learned is to trust God because when everything fails, He will be there and will never fail us.

I am praying for a peaceful and bountiful 2016 in God's name. Wish you all the same and God bless!

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Matthew's First Spelling Bee Contest

A month ago we received this letter from Matthew's school director.

This is to inform us that Matthew was chosen to represent their school in the upcoming APRSIM Sporsfest, Academic and Cultural Competition. He will compete in the Spelling-Pre Elementary category. Last year, he already competed at this APRISM event in the singing contest - pre elementary category. It was his first singing event at the age of 4 and now he will compete again in the academics event naman.

We were not surprised for Matthew is really good in spelling. That's because he can write and read well, both in English and Filipino. But one thing I was not sure and that is how he will behave during the contest. Despite that, Daddy and I agreed to support Matthew especially that he's showing determination.

Matthew really likes to join the contest. If not naman, it's easy to say no. But like what I said, gustong gusto nya and he didn't complain when it's time to review. And one week before the event, he even sacrificed his afternoon nap just to go back to school and have a 30-minute review with his teacher. That's why on his contest day, which is a Friday, we went with him and show our full support.

He has two other classmates who will compete in Science and Mathematics naman. We went to the venue earlier because there's an opening program pa. After that, the Pre Elementary contestants were asked to line up in their respective contest category.

The contests were held in closed classroom and only the quiz masters and the proctors were allowed inside. All the parents and coaches were outside waiting. The contest does not started right away because there were some kids who doesn't want to be left alone inside the room. Also, the quiz master wanted the kids to feel like they are just inside a classroom having lessons. Matthew said, they made them play a little before they started.  A okay kaya pala, haha... That I will tell you later.

Super nakakakaba mag-antay. Feeling ko ang tagal, to think 20 items lang naman. When the time was up and the kids left the room one by one, para akong nabunutan ng tinik. For me, I didn't expect anything na  basta matapos na yun contest. Haha.

When I saw Matthew with his dusty face, hands and clothes (because of the chalk he used), I felt a relief. Then Daddy checked the result and based on the tally board he got 8 out of 20. He ranked 9th out of the 18th contestants from different private schools here in Marilao. Not bad!

Matthew's teacher was so happy because the two other boys also made to the top 10. The three of them will be awarded on stage daw kaya we need to wait for the announcement pa. Okay lang kahit super late na kami sa work, haha. The school director greeted Matthew and us also. May utang daw silang blowout. Actually, who would have thought that these three hyper boys can join the contest and made to the top 10 pa.

I like that the school didn't pressure the kids to win, but according to them they just want the students to enjoy this experience.

By the way, I wanted to go up stage but decided not to kasi naman super pawis na ko, hehe. Anyway, here's Matthew with his coach.

When Matthew flashed his killer smile the school director said, papogian na lang daw! Best in smile daw si Matthew, hehe.

Looking at this one, Matthew is one of the smallest. At the age of 5, he already joined two contests as compare to us before na at this age nasa bahay palang at naglalaro. Sometimes I am thinking, Matthew is not yet emotionally prepared to be in school especially when he's branded as makulit. But hey, even he's the youngest look how confident he is. In fact I didn't see any trace of nervousness in him. He is always playful and jolly.

Speaking of being playful, when the quiz master saw him, she said, "a ikaw yun batang makulit sa loob, napagod ako kakabuhat ng upuan mo." Kakaloka, sabi na nga e. We heard someone shouting inside. I told Daddy parang boses in Matthew, sya nga pala. So that explained why he didn't get the easy words like car, van and coffee. Inuna ang kulit. 

But that doesn't make me admire him any less. I know he has more to give. Congratulations anak! You never fail to make us proud. Daddy and I will always be here to support you. We love you so much!

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Happy Birthday to My Tatay... in Heaven

Ten years have passed yet the hole in my heart lefy by my Tatay's death is still there. I know this hole will never be filled again. Every time I think of him, I can't help but regret how just little time we had. It would have been different if he's still here. My mother's condition would have been better. I have so many what if's, but all of these I entrust to God. For I know He had a reason and His plan is way better than ours.

Early today, while I was trimming my Nanay's hair, a white butterfly flew over us. I know it's him reminding me he's with us. Reminding me to more patient and understanding. And to love my mother more.  

Today would have been his 76th birthday. If ever he can read this, I want him to know that my love for him will be always there. And that I will never leave Nanay until it's time for them to meet again. This message is for my beloved Tatay. May the angels send this message to him.

via Pinterest

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Our Christmas Tree is Up!

Two weeks ago, Daddy A and Matthew already set up our Christmas tree. My two boys had fun putting up the tree. Look at them!

The two has been doing this since Matthew can walk and our little boy is always excited.

The Christmas decors are as old as our Christmas tree, which is 6 years na. Daddy and I are crocheting Christmas ornaments as addition to the old ones. Look at these Christmas stockings Daddy crochet.

Ang cute 'di ba?

We are crocheting more Christmas decors pa. Daddy is crocheting Snowman while I am doing snow flakes. I'll show them too once done. 

Next year, since 6 years na ang aming Christmas tree, we are planning to buy a new one. I like a taller one and I want it white :)

Kayo guys, is your Christmas tree up already? Let me see...

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The Trick or Treat Weekend & MORE

Hello everyone! It's Thursday again and just like that the first week of November will be over. Time flies super fast and did you know it's only 50 days before Christmas? Because of that, Daddy and Matthew already put up our Christmas tree.

Before that, let me share Matthew's first trick or treat. We brought him to work last Saturday. He was so excited.

Sorry for the messy background. Our laboratory is still under construction e. 

Good thing, Daddy's meeting ended early so we went straight to the mall for the trick of treat.

If you are wondering why Matthew was not in scary costume, it's because the event does not require a costume. It was a free activity of the mall's Kiddie Club where Matthew is a member. They just give us a map where stores to go to get the sweet treats. 

Matthew had so much fun going from one store to the other. Daddy and I enjoyed it too even if it's so tiring. I just wished I took more photos. I forgot na kasi because I am hungry na and but Matthew didn't want to eat until we're done visiting all the stores. Anyway, he had a blast and took home a bag full of sweet treats. He even told me he will wear a costume na daw next year.

Oh, we also received a free picture from the Big Picture.

So sorry we were not prepared for the instant photo opp. Haha!

We paid naman for this photo. I super like it kasi ang cute ng smile ni Matthew.

On November 1, we stayed at home lang because 2 is not a holiday and a long balikan trip will be difficult for Nanay. We paid tribute to our Tatay and Daddy's grandfathers by lighting candles. Babawi na lang kami sa birthday nya this 29th.

Finally, look how serious our little boy was while watching "Your Face Sounds Familiar."

Kaya naman pala. James Reid was there.

James Reid was Sam Concepcion's "ka-face" that night. And when Sam lost, he kept on saying Sam should have won because he's good. Or it's because Sam was James last night? Whatever! Haha!

That's it guys. Lapit na ulit weekend. I know like me, you are always looking forward to weekends. Enjoy the rest of the day!

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Very Busy August Recap

Two weeks ago, I started to get very busy at work. This is because our admin assistant gave birth and I decided not to hire a substitute because her maternity leave is just one month. With this, I took the responsibility of doing reports, following results, among others. It was my decision so I have no one to blame for my busy-ness but my self.

Now let me do an August recap because in 2 days we will say hello to September. August has been a very busy month for me. Aside from the reason above, August is the examination month.  As you all know, I am a Nanay teacher to our little boy. I see to it that I am the one who reviews with him his lessons, especially on examination weeks. I admit it was difficult because as I working mom I often go home so stressed. And sometimes, because Matthew is such a hyper boy, I easily lost my temper. Nevertheless, we make it through this month and I am proud to reap the fruits of my labor.

He got high and perfect scores on his quizzes, first quarter long quizzes and exams. Because of these, he deserves a reward.

Actually, I stopped from expecting too much from him. That's because until now, our little boy his very hyper in school. But that doesn't mean I don't believe his capability because for me he's very smart. He can read both in English and Filipino now. Also, he can understand English and can speak too. I'm sorry, I'm just a proud mom here.

Aside of being a Nanay teacher, I'm a mompreneur too. I am also busy managing our small online shop and we also accepts made to order crochet baby accessories too. Though I promise not to accept too much, this month we have finished 4 batches of MTOs.

The two boots are bound to Italy! Buti pa ang boots, haha! We are also making felt cloth letters.

These isn't possible without the help of Daddy Allan.

Also, this month we decided to split the contents of Our Family Blogs About blog, which will now concentrate on home and improvement, and DIYs.

So now we have two new sites: Mom and Dad Crochet where our crochet projects will be posted.

and Daddy's old blog Captured Moments by Chemist Dad where his photo arts, naks naman, will be posted.

Yes, I know it will be very tasky and time consuming to maintain many blogs. It's also expensive though the two have no domains yet. But I think it's doable naman. We also have plans of moving to WP and having our own hosting site. Crossing our fingers we can make this possible next year.

Moving on... My sister, who temporary cares for my mother and son, left us earlier than expected. It was another burden for me, physically and emotionally. I understand that she has her own life too but I just hope she considered the fact that I am working and there's no one left to look after my son and mother. It was another day when I really wanted to quit my job. But God is really good...

That day, my mother-in-law came with a new replacement. I was hesitant to hire a non-relative person but Daddy A tell me to give it a try. Her Tita who is my MIL's friend assure us that we can trust her. So I trust their words and she's with us for 3 weeks now. She's a not a total package of a good house help but I can forgive her lapses as long as she's taking good care of my mother and son. For me that's the most important.

So there, I keep my faith that our new house help will not leave us too soon. Daddy A and I already adjusted for her and I hope she appreciates our effort in showing her nothing but our kindness, hehe. Anyway, the other day, I asked Daddy to go to Matthew's school and asked what will be their costume for the Buwan ng Wika celebration. The teachers congratulated him and he doesn't know why until they told him that Matthew's on the top 5. I was surprised as I really don't expect this, but at the back of my mind, he got high scores in all his quizzes and exams so I must expect something kahit paano. Haha!

Behave pa more daw ang bulilit and it's not impossible to get a higher rand in the next grading period. Oopps.. I should not expect but I will do my best to teach Matthew and I will be more patient.

That's our busy August recap! See you all next month! Have a blessed long weekend!

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Monday Inspiration: Happy 7/12th to Us

July 27th is the day we chose to risk our long years of friendship for love... And I must say, I never regret it because today is our 7th wedding anniversary and our 12th year of love. 

What we have is not really perfect but our marriage is one of biggest blessings God gave me. I will never stop thanking God for giving me the best partner. I can not think of anyone who can fill the other half of my heart. We may shortcomings and imperfections but at the end of the day, it's the love, trust and respect that makes our marriage stronger and worth fighting for.

With that let me share this great reminder for all of us husbands and wives.

Inspirational Quote about Marriage

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Matthew Andrei's DIY Spiderman Party

Our son had a blast on his 5th birthday. We started his day with this surprise.

The little boy who was crying because he woke up alone in our bedroom instantly smile seeing this. We needed to wake up early so we can prepare for his mini party at school, a DIY Spiderman party. This was the first time he celebrated his birthday at school so we were surprised how hyperactive these little kids are, and that includes Matthew :)

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Happy 5th Birthday Matthew Andrei

Today is the 5th birthday of our little boy.

Please help us greet him a Happy Happy Happy Birthday!

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Mother's Day 2015: A Letter to My Nanay

Today let me honor the woman who has a great contribution to who I am today. I wrote a letter for her even though I know she cannot read and understand this anymore.

Dear Nanay,

I remember when I was asking you to buy me a cellphone. I cried hard when you told me you cannot buy me a cellphone yet. I made tampo and didn't talk to you that much. Then days after, you gave me a second hand cellphone and I was so happy. You always cannot stand seeing us unhappy and discontented. You will do anything to give us what we want.

You worked so hard so we can finished our studies. Still I cannot think how'd you able to budget your salary, with all three of us going to school and Tatay has no permanent work.

Our family isn’t perfect. You and Tatay had so many trying times. He had been unfaithful to many times. I almost hate him. But you always forgive him.

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My 34th, A Day Well Spent

My birthday passed by just like that! Bitin!

Anyway, I enjoyed my day so much. It was a tiring, happy happy day for me. By the way, my first is always a holiday that's why I get to enjoy my day without thinking about work.

Now, let me share how my special day went through photos.

We woke up early that morning to do some physical activities. Daddy ran around the clubhouse while Matthew and I played basketball. I need to buy him a pair of sports shoes too right?

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Freebies + My Birthday Wishlist

Two nights na lang and it's May na. Yun totoo, may lakad kaya ang oras? Hehe

As you all know, May is my birth month and I am first of may baby. In two days time,  I'll be another year older. But age is just a number sabi nga nila, at sabi ko na din, haha!

Of course, I have my birthday wishlist. But before that let me share freebies we have received this past weeks. 

Let me start with Avon Anew Vitale Day and Night Cream.

Avon Anew Vitale Day and Night Cream

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Must Try Food Recipes this Lent Season

This Holy week, we will just be staying at home. We will reflect and repent, and do a no-meat fasting. If you are also doing no-meat fasting, here are some no-meat recipe ideas that you can prepare this Lent season.

Tochong Bangus

Tochong Bangus

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Monday Inspiration: Lenten Season

Hello Monday again!

The long vacation is here but let us not forget what the Lenten Season is all about,. Let's repent and reflect, and start this week with our Monday inspirational quote.

Lenten Quote

Have a Blessed Holy week everyone!

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A Little Surprise for the Best Husband/Dad Ever!

Today, a special man in our life is celebrating his 34th birthday.

To start his special day, Matthew and I gave him a little surprise.

Two nights ago, I told Matthew to make a card for his Daddy. He excitedly told me, "Birthday po ni Daddy, Mommy?" I said yes and he quickly draw a cake on the bond paper I handed him.

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Happy Valentine's Day!

Here's a crochet rose flower for you...

Happy Valentine's Day!

Happy Valentine's day everyone!

P.S.: I just shared the secret to our long-lasting relationship. Please read and feel free to share yours.

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My Craft Projects for 2015

Mandala floor rug

Hello everyone! It's mid-week already and we are down to the 3rd week of January. Time flies so fast talaga ano? Since I cannot do something about it, I'll just fly with time. Lol.

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