ming's world

Lila's 1st piece

2012-02-11T21:23:00.000-08:00

Lila playing her first piece. I'm so happy she learned to play it in less than a week. :) Proud mommy!

Treat bags - checked

2012-01-29T12:39:00.001-08:00

Lila and I packed her treat bags today. Getting ready for her birthday.

seems to be true

2012-01-24T15:14:00.000-08:00

Last night I was so upset, but when I saw this from FB I can't help but too smile. Yes, I think this is so true! Poor me, I am the one who's getting annoyed

plain and simple

2012-01-23T22:19:00.000-08:00

Saw this post from FB, it's such a coincidence that I'm raging with anger because of his immaturity. I just hope someday..someday, he will know how to treat a girl right. Sharing this post, I'm not sure who originally wrote this but I'd like to acknowledge him for his sensitivity, I'm sure the girl is so lucky to have someone who understands her.

Treat your girl right, bro. Plain and simple.

I know it can be hard to please her sometimes, but it’s worth it in the end. Remember that she’s your happiness, your world. She should be the first person you talk to in the morning, and the last person you whisper “Good night” to. Unlike some of your bros, she’s going to be there for you when you’re the happiest, but more importantly, when you’re at your lowest. She’ll cook for you and care for you, so treat her like a queen. Girls are delicate creatures. Think before you say. Think before you act. They take every little mistake you make and multiply it by a thousand. So try not to mess up, aight? When you’re fighting, sometimes it’s better to put your relationship before your own pride. You’re not helping yourself by making her upset, bro. And never, ever, under any condition, let her go to sleep crying. She’ll resent you for it for the rest of your days. Don’t forget to make her feel special everyday. Open doors, go shopping with her. Hell, make dinner for her! The more you show her you love her, the more she’ll give you in return. Remember that an “I love you” via text is never as special as one in person. And show her off to your bros, don’t be ashamed of her. She’s never been ashamed of your dorky ass. Look, she doesn’t really need much in a relationship; she just wants to feel like she matters to you. That’s not asking for much, bro.
But if you haven’t learned a thing from reading this, remember this. Love her unconditionally, loyally, and keep her close. Love her with everything you’ve got: emotionally, mentally, and physically. Because I swear, if you won’t treat your girl right, someone else definitely will.

snow is not bad at all

2012-01-19T12:14:00.000-08:00

it's been snowing at seattle since Sunday, dream come true for lila but a nightmare for me. Snowing means we are stuck inside the house! We have to do our work at home which is so challenging for me, cause i have to watch over Lila, cook and do other household chores at the same time. Anyway we found some way to enjoy the snow, i stopped working at 4pm yesterday and followed Lila and Mark outside. We played at the snow, we threw snowballs and sled!it was so much fun, I was so happy to see Lila enjoying the snow. I was so happy because we are having fun together.

Treat bags

2012-01-14T00:23:00.000-08:00

Got our orders from Party City. I ordered it last week with the help of my lila, she was the one who chosed the contents of her treat bag. Here are the treats that she personally picked:

1. 24ct Farm Animals for $14.16

2. 2pk of 12ct Smile Maze puzzles for $2.99/ea
3. 2pk of Creature Pop Ups 12ct for $4.99/ea
4. 3pk of Rainbow Smiles Stickers 8 Sheets for $0.99/ea

5. Smile Springs 12ct for S2.99

6. 2pk of Groovy Coloring Kits 12ct for $6.99/ea

7. 2pk of Smile Slide Drums 12ct for $2.99/ea

8. Assorted Springs 12ct for $2.99

9. 2pk of Click Cameras 12ct for $2.99
Lila and I really love these cameras, because you can actually see pictures when you peek on the view finder.

10. 2pk Star Party Bags with Deluxe Star Ties 16ct for $3.99

We're not planning to put any food items on the bag since I'm not sure what kind of food to include in the bag. We spent $71.93 including tax, this is lower than I expected because I got 10% discount and a free shipping. Now I just have to design Lila's TY cards so we can start packing these things.

I'll post actual pic soon.

Lila's 5th Birthday Preparation

2012-01-05T23:38:00.000-08:00

how fast time flies, lila is turning 5! Birthday planning starts again, a bit later than my usual planning because on all of her past birthdays, I usually plan it atleast 2 months before her birth month. But now, since we're only planning a very simple celebration for her, I don't have to create personalized invitation, no need to get a balloon supplier for the venue set up, no need to get a magician for entertainment, no need to scout divisoria for the lootbags and contents... In short, not much of hassle anymore.

For this year, lila just wants to bring cupcakes at her school, she got the idea from her classmate who celebrated their birthday that way. She also want to give treat bags.

I'm planing to get cupcakes from Yellow Leaf , they have wide selections of cupcake flavors and they also have junior sizes which teachers also preferred because it is less sugar. I'm planning to get 3 dozen junior cupcakes. For the treat bags, we'll go to a nearby party city, I hope we can get everything we need there.

Mark also planning to eat out with our fellow pinoy friends here... where? - I have no idea :D

tomatoed pork (kinamatisan)

2012-01-03T21:10:00.000-08:00

Easy to prepare and budget friendly dish that I've learned from my mother-in-law

Ingredients:
- 1/2 kilo pork ribs
- 5-6 pcs. diced tomatoes
- 1 med. size onion, quartered
- napa cabbage or bok choy
- salt to taste
- water

Procedure:
- put onions and tomatoes in a pot. cook in a low heat until the tomatoes become watery
- add pork ribs and cook for about 3 minutes
- add water, just enough to cover the pork
- bring to a boil, then lower the heat
- add salt to taste
- cook some more until the pork is tender
- add the napa cabbage or bok choy
- and then turn off heat
- serve and enjoy

my 2012 goals

2012-01-01T01:40:00.000-08:00

Goodbye 2011 and Hello 2012!

First time I started the year outside my homeland, unfortunately due to our busy schedule I was not able to do any of my usual rituals before the new year starts. Though I'm still hoping that 2012 will still be generous to us even I was not able to hang grapes on our door and windows, even I was not able to have 12 round fruits on top of our table, even I was not able to shower coins and candies inside our house.

5 minutes before new year, we were outside our friends house, waiting for the fireworks from the space needle -

On this year, here are the things I want to accomplish:

Loose weight - this is the most common item on everyone's goal. My plan is just to eat fruits/veggies at night and do some exercise at least twice a week.

Be punctual - in everthing, it can be at work or appoitment with anyone. This is a bit challenging because I also have to consider Mark and Lila's time since we're always together.

Take a pic ~~everyday~~ and update my tumblr or my blogger - I just want to maximize my SLR and I want to track the things thats happening in my life.

Read atleast 3 books in this year - to improve my vocubalary. My goal is just 3 cause I don't read that much anymore.

Be happily together all this year - I'm hoping and praying that Mark, Lila and I will be able to spend all the days of this year together. It sounds impossible because this is something I can't control but I'm still hoping, so I'm giving it up to Him to make this happen. But ofcourse my part is to do my best at work.

California vacation - Disneyland and Universal studios. And I'm hoping to visit some of our relatives there also.

Buy the bag - that I really wanted . I know this is something exepensive but this will be a gift for myself on my birthday. And a treat for my hardwork :p MJ Classice Q Lil Ukita

Return Lila's money - through the years, Lila saved a lot from the aquinaldos she received and allowances from Japan. But her money become our last resort everytime we're short. So now Mark and I will start to pay her. :p

Be happy and count my blessings - and record it. When I looked back to the posts and the letters that I've written to myslef and to Mark, I've noticed that most of it is about sadness, hurt and rants.. which made me think if it is all that I have during those days. I've realized that I should also remeber the things that made me happy and share it.

Good Luck to us on 2012, may all our wishes, dreams, goals and objectives may come true.

snowqualmie summit

2011-12-30T00:43:00.001-08:00

dec 23 - we went to snoqualmie summit. it was our first time to encounter snow so we've prepared ourselves not to get cold. we wore three layers of clothes:

* base layer - thermal, this should not be cotton
* fleece - i wore fleece for the top and just a cotton leggings for my bottoms
* waterproof/windbreaker jacket - i wore my bubble jacket
* snow pants - this is important especially if you're going to play in the snow
* snow boots - or any shoes that will not make you slip. better buy your own since rental cost $30.

mark enrolled in 3 session ski class while lila and i just went on tubing. the 3 session class cost $119, for tubing - $22 for adults and $5 for 5yo and below.

the trip was fun, lila enjoyed a lot because she's been waiting for the snow eversince she arrived here.

update:
oh! i forgot - beanie and waterproof gloves or mittens

green tea addiction

2010-10-30T09:11:00.000-07:00

Aside from kitkat green tea and green tea frappe from starbucks, im also in love with haagen dazs cookies and green tea ice cream.

But this is only available at Japan. *sigh*

...one of the things that makes me want to go back there.

lila's TLC

2010-10-18T08:12:00.000-07:00

(Lila brushing my hair with her fingers)

Lila: r u sick?
Mommy: yes

(hugs and kisses mommy)
(Lila thinking....)

Lila: drink medicine, ok?

(Lila thinking again....)

Lila: eat melon
Lila: eat orange... ok?

hehehhhehehe....kakatuwa. she's so sweet.

kids say the cutest things

2010-08-24T08:51:00.000-07:00

Heard this when her lola is feeding her:

Lola: Lila eat your carrot
Lila: I am not a rabbit! Carrots are for rabbit.

Wahahahhahahah...... Lila never fails to surprise me with her reasoning abilities. :D

Quick Recap

2010-08-09T09:07:00.000-07:00

It’s been ages since I updated this blog, an I owe this a long post... anyway I don't have the time to write all the things I wanted, for now here's a quick recap of the things that happened:

January

Lila turned 3, we celebrated her birthday at McDonnalds Greenbelt. Here are the details of her party

Food/Venue:
Mcdonald's Greenbelt
494-9373/894-5959
Paseo de Roxas cor. Esperanza St.,
Greenbelt Center Makati City
Ronald's Room
Time: 3:30 - 5:00 pm
Food: Spaghetti with burger and softdrinks
Expense: P12550

Balloon Decors:
Say it with balloons
sayitwithballoons.multiply.com
inclusion:
mini pillars
cake arch
balloon burst
hanging flower balloons (8)
Expense: P4000

Cake:
frenchkisspastries.com
5318700
2 layer of Fairy Princes cake
1st layer - lemon cake
2nd layer - styro
Expense: P2500

Entertainment:
Boogie and Friends
948-7588/940-1343
3 in 1 Package
Magician, Clown, Face Painter
- games
- balloon twisting
- bubbles
Expense: P4000

Prizes and lootbags
divimall

Lootbags (40pcs):
drawstring bags- yellow, pink, blue and green
contents:
boys - lego , mini magic spring, yoyo, top, sticker
girls: headband, nail polish, bracelet, sunglasses, sticker

Game Prizes:
bracelets, headband, magic spring, yoyo, pencil case, pink asst. toys, cooking set, hair accessories, ben10 cellphone, ben10 car, robot, mini billiards, abacus, tamborine, jumping rope, catch ball,, rubix cube, board games ,water game, rackets, set of pens, set of coloring materials, bubbles, whiteboard, coin box
Expense: P2936.5

Photographer:
Mitch Bautista
mitch@mitchbautista.com
mitchbautista.com
Expense: P3000

DIY Invitation/TY tags:
layout by myself
printed at
Rasa Printworld center 60/page (4pcs)
Fax n Parcel 125/page (8pcs)
Total damage: P424.25

Lila's gift:
toy house
Expense: P1199.75

Total wallet damage: P32,905.25. Not bad compared to her first two birthdays =) And the important thing is that she had fun.

April - May

After months of preparation for the requirements of our passports and japan visas, finally we were able to visit Mark at Japan. It was a wonderful experience, we visited a lot of places and I was mesmerized with its beauty. I hope we could stay there longer, but the consul only gave us 15 days!

June

I received the most expensive gift I ever received! lol! I was so happy, finally a dream come true. =) Not ready to reveal the details.. ssshhhh.... :D

Lila's first day of real school, "real" since the first was just a play school. :At her age, she can go either nursery or kinder, she was assessed and was qualified at kinder class, but we're not in a hurry and we don't want to put pressure on it, so we enroll her in nursery class. Her school days is just 3 x a week from 11pm to 5pm.

I am so thankful for the blessings and the milestone we have for the first half of this year. Hopefully this will continue pour for the rest of our lives. :D

remembering him

2009-12-03T07:06:00.000-08:00

its been six years since you've been gone... what would it have been if you are still here? how would you look like if you're still alive? its been a long time, yet it still pains me remembering how you died...

Joseph A. Leelin Jr.

January 23, 1986 - Descember 4, 2003

but life goes on... crying won't make you come back. all i can do is just to miss you so much. You're not forgotten junjo. We love you so much. justice will be on the Lord's hand.

christmas preps for lila

2009-12-02T06:00:00.000-08:00

23 days before christmas... i'm so excited, i can't remember the last time i felt this, maybe ten years ago :D anyway i'm really excited for lila, not for myself. i want to see her face when she opens her gifts, i want to see how she would react. hehehehe i never expected this kind of feeling, maybe this is part of being a mommy. For this year, here are the presents she would received from us:

Little Do's & Don'ts Board Books by Karen Katz - from Santa. Which I think is the best books for her because she's starting to grow maldita. hehehehheheh

LeapFrog word whammer - obviously from mommy, since its an educational toy

Table and Chairs - from daddy, this was supposed to be last year's christmas gift, but mark decided to give lila other gift.

For Lila's Godparents, here are the things that makes lila happy, this will also give you an idea what to give to her :p

Lila loves to wear dress, even when she just stay at home:

She will definitely appreciate a dress, her size is for four years old.

She really loves bubbles, that's the only thing she would ask me to buy when we're at a toy store (lucky for me :D)

You could give her a bubble machine, that's something new to her.

Or you can give her anything with Hello Kitty and Ariel The Little Marmaid. Anything except any plastic used for eating, I'm very particular with the things she use because of the BPA issue.

richwell sale - early christmas shopping

2009-11-15T05:26:00.000-08:00

came home from richwell sale with two big plastic bags. it was my first experience to go there. had fun even if the line was sooo long. bought gifts for my inaanaks and pamangkins. Here are the toys that i've got:

LeapFrog Word Whammer, original price P1999.75, got it for P800 - For Lila, maybe from Santa or me, I'm planning to give her 3 gifts, one from Santa, from Daddy and me
Barbie Fashion Fever, original price P1599.75, got it for P500 - I'll give this to Sam
Stacking cups, orignal price P199.75, got it for P159.80 - for my cousins baby - Prince
Baby Einstein links, orignal price P399.75, got it for P319.80 - for my new nephew - Aven (he's still on ate mean's tummy, still waiting for him to come out, maybe this coming week =))
Microblocks tote - from 749.75, got it for P599.80 - for Joms
Megablocks Little wagon - from P799.75 to P639.8 - for Mark's inaanak/niece - JamJam
Magnabeads Amethyst Bracelets - from P699.75 to P300 - got two for my cousin Mj and niece Janna
Tool Set - from P100 to P50 - I'll give this to Sven
Construction Playset, from P229.75 to P100.00 - for my nephew/inaanak - Harvey
Barbie from P299.75 to P239.8 - i bought 2, one for Kateleen
Panda Mini Rail- from 149.75 to P119.80 - pasalubong for Lila
Jigsaw puzzle- from 149.75 to P119.80

most of the items i got is only 20% off, but if you really have the patience to dig into the boxes and go into to much crowd, you'll find a bigger discounted items.

i want to come back but i am complete with my xmas shopping for the kids, if only i could shop for mark.. but he prefers to give money. i prefer to give gifts because i remember how it feels to open gifts... it is more exciting than receiving cash :D

sale is still ongoing, details below:

tv viewing

2009-11-10T05:53:00.000-08:00

sometimes i wish i could just stay at home to monitor my lila's television viewing. i came home early tonight, so i rested on our sala while the television is tuned at channel seven, our helpers are always watching drama series. i was so pissed to see violent scene on what they're watching so I scolded them because lila is also watching! hay.. sad, why do they have to let her watch those kind of tv programs, i told them not to let her watch those things, they followed on the first month but after a while they seemed to forget all about it. and i'm not really sure if they're following me when i'm not around...this is also the reason why we don't have a cable connection and why i opted to buy educational dvds/vcds, but still the same, i still can't protect lila's young mind.

sometimes i'm thinking of just sending lila at school, maybe she can learn more than staying here with my two helpers! but toddler play schools are soooo expensive.

what i can do for now is to restrict the helpers from watching shows other than the dvds/vcds we have.

taking care of my eyes

2009-10-22T07:46:00.000-07:00

my left eye was bloodshot red after irene's homecoming celebration. i went to American Eye Center Monday morning to have it check. Doctor's finding is infiltration, infiltration is caused by excessive use of contact lens or virus, the latter is scary because it can make you blind. So i diligently followed doctor's advice to put vigamox every hour. After a two days, my eye got better, but i still go to the doctor for monitoring, she gave me more meds. The doctor advised me not to wear contacts until my eye gets totally healed, so I'm wearing my old eye glasses which is not match on my current grade anymore.

I hate wearing glasses, it bothers me. But for now i have no choice, i have to take care of my eyes before i totally loose my sight, maybe this is already a warning or a lesson for me that I should take care of the blessings that HE gave.

Next time, i won't abuse my eyes. I won't wear contact lens for too long..

graffiti

2009-08-11T11:50:00.000-07:00

this is something that i wanted to try for the longest time but i wasn't able to do so due to lack of resources and lack of time... luckily i was able to borrow my dad-in-law 's tripod and dudu's led flashlight. so here it is - my light graffiti-

my first attempt

after several clicks, i was able to form "LOVE"

trying to hold a flower light

swirls

i <3 u

i really had fun taking these pictures.

hurt

2009-07-17T09:23:00.001-07:00

i am so hurt... :(

my favorite shot

2009-04-28T22:25:00.000-07:00

I'm getting addicted with my camera lately, I want to go places to shoot. So far this is my favorite shot:

This was taken at Villa Cleofas resort Cagbalate Mauban 042609.

And this is my hubby's enhanced version of my pic:

Looks more interesting. Now I also want to have my own MAC for post photo processing , but priority wise I would just stick with my original plan to buy lcd for my desktop, for Lila's benefit too.

yehey Italiannis

2009-04-01T07:54:00.000-07:00

wow! I get so excited whenever I see such a great deal like this... except that, Mark is not here to share the opportunity. o well, maybe I can find someone who will eat with me and will share the expense :) Anyway something to share with you guys:

Just present your SMS coupon at any Italianni's Branch and avail Small Price for Big Lunch Meal to get another one of equal or lesser value

Click here if you want it!

to the love of my life...

2009-03-30T07:49:00.000-07:00

to the other half that makes me whole...the one who completes me...
my reason for breathing... my everything... the love of my life...

Happy 4th Anniversary Mark!

I will always be thankful to have you and I will always be here for you.

I love you till eternity...

Christmas Gifts

2008-12-03T07:35:00.000-08:00

I'm so happy today, I got my Christmas gift for my baby lila. I've been eyeing this for ages, now I got it for her. I bought it from an online seller, she gave me a pretty good deal, because it is 30% cheaper than the mall price.

I can't wait to give it to her, I'm sure she's going to love it. :)

For those who are planning to give Christmas gift for Lila, here are some gift ideas, these are the things that I think she needs and will enjoy.

1. Pajamas - I am having a hard time looking for a long-sleeved pajama set for her age. So if you can find one, then it will be perfect gift.

2. Brainy Baby dvds - I bought her the Peek-A-Boo episode, and she loves it. She can watch it the whole day. So I'm planning to complete the set. You can help me do that :) These are also available at the baby section of SM Department store.

3. Books - Any title will do, as long as it is appropriate for her age and it is a board book. :)

4. Table and Chair set - if you feel generous, give her a table and a chair. Something she can use for drawing, coloring or eating.

These are just suggestions. So you won't have a hard time thinking what to give her. :p

Lila's first trick or treat

2008-10-30T15:24:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was lila's first trick or treat at Avanade Cybergate 1 5th floor and Cybergate 3 15th floor. Suprisingly she won the Best costume, I never expected that to happen kasi nag iisip pa nga ako if I would buy her a new costume, para kasing pang united nation ung kimono =) We'll luckily everyone loves it. The kimono was from Japan, one of the pasalubong of her daddy. Eh instead na matambak sa cabinet at malakihan, ayun pinasuot ko. I only bought her the slippers to match the costume,hindi na din ako nakabili ng pumpkin basket so she used the sand pail na lang, besides yellow din naman. (lol! color coordinated)

After the trick or treat, games and merienda followed. Si lila todo participate, as in nasa harap na harap and sayaw ng sayaw, ngiti ng ngiti, everyone was taking her pic kasi ang galing daw mg pose. =) And nung eating time na, nag iikot ikot, akala mo bday niya. lol!

I'm so happy and proud of her, I never thought na ganun siya kabibo even sa maraming tao, I thought mahihiya siya and matatakot, hindi pala. Kakatuwa! sarap ng feeling pag yung baby mo gusto ng mga tao.

My New Baby is Coming Soon =D

2008-10-26T00:16:00.000-07:00

Introducing my new baby,

Not a real baby! because that's impossible to happen because we're on LDR right now.

This is a Christmas gift from my loving hubby, I'm so happy when he showed it on the webcam last night, at the same time sad coz there's no more surprise on the xmas day. Oh well, I'm still happy and I'm so excited to have it on my hands. Thank you so much tao for giving my wish! I love you so much!

Now I feel guilty coz up to now, I still don't have an idea what should I give him. :p

2nd year

2008-08-25T19:52:00.001-07:00

It's been 2 years since we got married, though our relationship is not a bed of roses, I'm still happy that I have you in my life. I love you so much tao...

Sppppplllluuuuuurrrrgee!

2008-07-23T20:09:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Mark's remmitance was reflected to my account. Thanks to PNB for no hassle money transfer. And I was able to check my account over the internet, I just enrolled my account, and after a few clicks, I was able to check the balance, view transaction history etc. All praises to PNB, I don't have to go to a branch to enroll my account for e-banking services. Here's the link for PNB e-banking:
Moreover I'm also thankful that drought is almost over, almost... because we have to pay debts and our insurance premiums. But atleast now, we have extra money for the things we want =) So after office hours, I headed to Shangri-la to shop and apply for internet connection. I wasn't able to do the latter because there's no globelines office at shang. Things that I bought for lila is mothercare shirt and 2 pack short, both is 40% off. Most shops at shang is on sale- Gap, Debenhams, Celine, M&S, Big and Small Co., Orange Juice, Gingersnaps etc. I like to grab undies from M&S because they ar 50% off but sizes left are big ones and I'm not also sure what size I am in US standard, I'll check the other branch soon. Because of time constraint I wasn't able to roam much, I bought one dozen of Country Style doughnuts (which also discounted) and went to my daddy's house to meet mama letty.

Later, I'll a buy gift for ate ems' baby shower, I want to give her Playtex nurser drop-ins™ system . I think it will be useful for her when going to Laguna or Pampanga, it's convenient because you don't have to bring a bulky sterilizer! Drop-ins system consists of holders and liners, liners are like plastic container that you can dispose after use, So all you need is a holder to hold the liners. I wish I learnt about this before lila was born.
I hope I could spend the money wisely (I SHOULD), it's been ages since my last shopping spree so I feel so excited to splurge. lol!

short but heart-warming

2008-06-24T02:39:00.000-07:00

We did not get a chance to talk this morning because I was in a meeting when he buzz me.

mark rivera (6/24/2008 11:35:14 AM): mimingtaw
mark rivera (6/24/2008 11:35:18 AM): wats up??
mark rivera (6/24/2008 11:35:21 AM): san ka nag punta?
mark rivera (6/24/2008 11:38:51 AM): binilhan ako ng chocolate ng boss ko hahaha
michelle rivera (6/24/2008 11:45:50 AM): bt k bnilhan?
michelle rivera (6/24/2008 11:45:58 AM): sayang nde n kta naabutan

... But he was able to find a way =">

mark rivera (6/24/2008 4:50:18 PM): taw
michelle rivera (6/24/2008 4:50:23 PM): >:D<
michelle rivera (6/24/2008 4:50:25 PM): oi
michelle rivera (6/24/2008 4:50:30 PM): bt k online?
mark rivera (6/24/2008 4:50:31 PM): wat gawa mo?
mark rivera (6/24/2008 4:50:33 PM): mabilis lang me
michelle rivera (6/24/2008 4:50:35 PM): CTP
mark rivera (6/24/2008 4:50:36 PM): tumakas lang ako.
michelle rivera (6/24/2008 4:50:38 PM): san ka?
michelle rivera (6/24/2008 4:50:38 PM): ah
michelle rivera (6/24/2008 4:50:41 PM): mahuli k nga
mark rivera (6/24/2008 4:50:42 PM): d kasi kita nakausap kanina
mark rivera (6/24/2008 4:50:43 PM): hehehe
michelle rivera (6/24/2008 4:50:49 PM): ah
michelle rivera (6/24/2008 4:50:54 PM): touch nmn ako
michelle rivera (6/24/2008 4:50:56 PM): hhehhhe
mark rivera (6/24/2008 4:50:57 PM): o cya later na lang. nag drop by lang me to say i love you so much..
mark rivera (6/24/2008 4:51:01 PM): mmmuuuaahhh!!!
mark rivera (6/24/2008 4:51:02 PM): bye byue
michelle rivera (6/24/2008 4:51:06 PM): :">
michelle rivera (6/24/2008 4:51:10 PM): i love you more
michelle rivera (6/24/2008 4:51:12 PM): mmmwah!
michelle rivera (6/24/2008 4:51:13 PM): :-*
michelle rivera (6/24/2008 4:51:15 PM): miss you
michelle rivera (6/24/2008 4:51:18 PM): ingat ka lagi

me @ 24

2008-06-17T21:44:00.000-07:00

I turned 24 last June 5, and I'm thankful because Mark was still here that time. Mark was the one who organized the party, he went to the market to buy all the things we needed. We had a simple celebration, foods served are: spaghetti, bihon, chicken, cake and tacos - sounded like children's party, but it doesn't matter, as long as we enjoyed the party.

In the past 4 years of my life, here's a recap of the significant things that made me stronger and more mature:

April 30, 2005 - Graduation Day!

April 26, 2006 - Mark and I tied the knot ... early than we planned.

January 31, 2007 - The day I gave birth to Lila.

This year (2008), we're officially in LDR. I'm a single parent, big responsibility but I'm getting used to it. Life without Mark is not complete... I know I keep on complaining when he's around but his absence makes me realized the things I missed. I miss talking to him before we go to sleep, I miss our movie night out and our resto hopping, I miss the days when he is just a "text away" when I need him.

sadness

2008-05-29T21:39:00.000-07:00

Maybe she's right, I changed, I don't believe in love that much. Not love in general, but his love, it's not the same as we were boyfriend and girlfriend, it seems to lessen when we got married.

It's been more than a year since I've been giving excuses to his shortcomings. Understanding his flaw, thinking that he's not yet over with his single life --

When I was pregnant with lila, I told him to quit smoking, he said he will, when lila is born... Lila is more than a year now but he still smokes. His reasons/excuse: "I am full", "It's cold", "I am stressed", "this is my first stick this day" etc. I always asked him when will he stop, he will always tell me "soon" ... I'm losing patience in waiting and I'm tired of asking.

Drinking everyday! I always tell him that drinking is bad for his health. His unreasonable excuse: "My body is made of steel", "Don't listen to the doctor, they don't know anything!", "This is only a bottle" .

Hanging out wih his friends, drinking up to dawn as if there's no one waiting for him to go home. This has been always the reason of our feuds. Most of the time, I don't allow him to go out with his friends because he doesn't come home on time, and without any notice that he can't make it on time.

Last night, he's telling me that when we go to his place on Friday, he will go out to say 'hi' to his friends, knowng the simple 'hi' will take hime more than an hour, i asked him why can't he wait for saturday, since we're going to arrive there at night, his answer:"When you got your salary, buy handscuffs to keep me home". I was hurt, he does not know that it is our monthsary on Friday, that I'm giving him a hint because it will be the first monthsary that we will be together since he arrived from Japan. I was hurt he doesn't anticipate our special day anymore. I envied his friends birthdays, or friends gimik schedules, he always remember those...

He's telling me that he is still adjusting, but until when? I can't see any improvement too. The hurt is just piling up, soon I'm going to give up.

Things I'm holding on is Lila and the hope that soon he will grow up. I'm not also perfect, but I'm trying to be a good wife a good mother. I hope he will too.

I smile because he still make me happy but behind my smile: I feel unimportant, I feel neglected.

A letter for my mama...

2008-05-11T20:09:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day Mama... Though I wasn't able to kiss you yesterday, I hope you know what's in my heart. I miss you so much ma, my heart cries every time I remember that it will take time before I can kiss and hug you again. Thanks for everything! Here's a song for you:

"To Where You Are"

Who can say for certain
Maybe you're still here
I feel you all around me
Your memory's so clear

Deep in the stillness
I can hear you speak
You're still an inspiration
Can it be (?)
That you are mine
Forever love
And you are watching over me from up above

Fly me up to where you are
Beyond the distant star
I wish upon tonight
To see you smile
If only for awhile to know you're there
A breath away's not far
To where you are

Are you gently sleeping
Here inside my dream
And isn't faith believing
All power can't be seen

As my heart holds you
Just one beat away
I cherish all you gave me everyday
'Cause you are my
Forever love
Watching me from up above

And I believe
That angels breathe
And that love will live on and never leave

Fly me up
To where you are
Beyond the distant star
I wish upon tonight
To see you smile
If only for awhile
To know you're there
A breath away's not far
To where you are

I know you're there
A breath away's not far
To where you are

lazy day

2008-05-09T02:14:00.000-07:00

I am so lazy today because I don't have work to do. I'm just waiting for bugs to fixed but only two came up which can be solved in 5 minutes. Darn! I've been wanting to rest my mind, and here it is but my mind is still not in rest because I've been worrying what will I charge in my time sheet. lol!

Now I'm waiting for the time so I could go home and attend my mom's last day novena.

WHEN YOU FALL IN LOVE

2008-05-08T22:46:00.000-07:00

(Debunking the Myths That Are Driving You Crazy) By: Bo Sanchez
This article isn't for teenagers only.

Falling in love happens to the young and the not-so-young. (Did you see 42-year-old Tom Cruise jump up and down Oprah's couch because of Katie?)

It happens to everyone. Fat, thin, tall, short, intelligent, uneducated, holy, not so holy, dark, white, yellow, green... it doesn't really matter.

All of us fall in love.

And we get stuck in myths that drive us absolutely crazy.

My goal is to debunk these myths and convince you not to believe in them.

Let's begin ...

MYTH 1: LOVE WILL CONQUER ALL

Let me qualify.

This is such a tricky myth. Because love ----- as defined by the Bible ------ will conquer all. But love ------ as defined by glazed-eyed lovers ----- will not.

If you believe in this myth, you might do the following:

You overlook major obstacles in your relationship.

Everyone you know is wondering why you chose that creature from outer space as your boyfriend. Your bestfriends are telling you to get rid of him. Your family is telling you to throw him out of a running vehicle. Aling Rosa of the sari-sari store across the street is telling you to lace his drink with poison.

But you won't --------- because you're in love. That's why there are songs entitled, "you and me against the world".

Your best buds comment, 'but he's been jobless for the past three years!" And you say, "He's free-spirited. He feels boxed in when he's in the office. '(in other words, he's undisciplined, lazy bum.)

Your officemates say, 'He flirts with other women constantly!' and you say, 'No, he's just friendly.' (in other words, he's a pervert)

Your cousins say, 'He's taking drugs, He's got needle marks all over his arm. And you say, 'No, he's into cross stitching.'

You overstay in toxic relationships, believing that your love will change him.

The wedding doesn't transform anyone...Even if three Popes officiate the wedding. The person you'll march with into the church will be the same person you'll march with out of the church. He doesn't change one bit.

In fact, the marriage makes the hidden more obvious.

If he was selfish before he got married, he will be even more selfish after the wedding. If he was hypercritical before he got married, he'll even be more vile and prolific with his criticisms after wedding. Here's the truth: You need more than feelings of love to make a relationship work. You need mature character, total commitment and a minimum level of compatibility.

(Especially compatibility in the area of values and mission in life. I hear people say, 'We're compatible. Our names begin with the same letter J. My name is Julie and his name is Julio. We're both born in July." )

Wow. That's so deep, I want to cry. (<-- i know a lot of people like this..) MYTH 2 : WHEN IT"S TRUE LOVE YOU WILL KNOW THE MOMENT YOU MEET THE OTHER PERSON

I'm sure you've had this experience before.

You are in a crowded room. You're surrounded by boring, noisy chatter when, suddenly, this gorgeous guy enters the door. Your eyes meet. Instantly, time stands still. The universe grinds to a halt. Except for this attractive man in front of you, everything in your vision becomes a giant blur. The hubbub of the crowd becomes a soft muffle and, from out of nowhere, you here gentle violin music from the background.

One week later, he's your boyfriend.

A few weeks later, you discover that your boyfriend's a pathological liar, buried in credit card debt, borrows money from all his girlfriends (you're his eight in six months).

Your mind says, 'Dump him'.

Your heart says, 'But it was love at first sight!'

Here are the consequences ...

You become so focused on the magical first moment, you become blind to the dark side of the relationship.

Six out of seven days, you're fighting with your boyfriend. But you can't give him up because you met each other in such a magical moment. Your car keys fell and he picked it up, and then your eyes met, you smelled his deodorant, and you dropped your keys again ......How can you not be meant for each other?

You become a love-at-first-sight junkie that you could miss out on the 'real thing'.

One intelligent woman told me, 'Bo, there's this guy who's courting me. He's okay. He's kind, he's responsible, he has a good job.......'

"I could hear a 'but' coming ," I said.

"But there are no sparks!" she bit her lip.

"No violin music playing in the background huh?"

"None. When I see him, the background music I hear is lululalu-lalulalulalei..."

"Listen. You don't need a magical first moment to meet your potential husband. The important things are mature character, financial responsibility, ability for commitment, compatible mission and values..."

I actually met this girl again on her wedding, and before she marched down the aisle, she whispered to me, "Do you hear the violin music, Bo? It's loud and clear."

It doesn't have to be love at first sight. In fact, marriages with the least adjustments are those between friends who've known each other for years before they realize that they're good marriage material.

What is love at first sight?
Many times, it's lust at first sight. Or infatuation at first sight.

Don't give it too much weight.

Here's the truth: it takes a moment to experience infatuation but true love takes a lifetime.

MYTH 3 : IF IT IS TRUE LOVE YOU WILL FEEL THIS WAY FOR EACH OTHER FOREVER

No, you won't. Here are the consequences for believing this myth :
You panic when the feelings wane, and wonder whether the marriage is over and whether you really loved one another in the first place.

Imagine the night of your honeymoon. Your new bride is sleeping. The cotton curtains are gently swaying in the cool breeze. You gaze at her lovely face. You study her soft cheeks. Her long eyelashes. Her beautiful nose, her parted red lips.

And all of a sudden, she snores.
"Ngggggggooork"

How do you react? Because it's your honeymoon, you say, 'How cute.'

Six months down the road, the same scene transpires. Your wife is sleeping. And the same cotton curtains are gently swaying in the cool breeze. And you hear her snore.
"Ngggggoork."

What do you say? "Ssssssheeeesh, Honey! You sound like a boat!"

What has happened? The feelings have gone. Let me say this: 'That's normal. It happens to everyone. But it doesn't mean your love is gone so don't panic!

You can make a decision to love the snoring boat.

You start blaming your partner for the loss of love
This is nutty. But many people do it: when we don't feel in love, we think it's the fault of the other person. And so we fight him. Again, we fall out of love because we're human beings. It's nobody's fault. The moment you fall out of love, the real work begins.

Let me explain.

This is the most important point I'm going to make. (I got this from Scott Peck in his bestseller book, The Road Less traveled)

"Falling in love isn't love."

Here's why. When you fall in love...
a. No decision is required. Falling in love just happens.
b. No effort is required. Falling in love is like.... Well, falling.
c. No hard work is required. Falling in love is being bitten by the love bug.

On the other hand, true love requires all three : Decision, effort and lots of hard work. In the Bible, love is a command. You make it happen. Sure true love can only happen after you've fallen out of love.

When you begin choosing to love, even if you don't feel like doing it ---- that's true love. And that's the foundation of a lasting marriage.

MYTH 4: YOUR PARTNER WILL FULFILL YOU COMPLETELY

Again because falling in love satisfied you completely ----- you want the same satisfaction to last. No it won't. Consequence? You might fail to recognize a good relationship because your partner isn't fulfilling the needs you should be fulfilling yourself.

Here's the truth: the right partner will fulfill many of your needs but not all of them .

There are just some things your husband can't give you: you're self-worth. Your spirituality. Your inner happiness. These are things you have to work on your own. I've met lots of people who think they're dissatisfied with their marriage. In reality, they're dissatisfied with themselves. I've met lots of people who think they're bored with their marriages. And they complain to the high heavens how boring their husband or wife is ---- when in truth, they're really bored with life.

Meet your own needs. Find your happiness in God. Find your niche, your calling, your destiny. And then share your joy with your spouse.

MYTH 5 : IF IT'S TRUE LOVE YOU WON'T BE ATTRACTED TO ANYONE ELSE

If you believe in this myth, you panic when you get attracted to someone else, questioning the authenticity of your love for your spouse.

One man told me, 'Bo, I love my wife. Or I thought I did. But then I met this woman at work. She has nice make-up. She smells nice. She wears a pencil-cut skirt. When I go home, my wife is wearing a drab rag. Her hair is undone. She smells of vinegar. Gosh I am attracted to this girl at work."

Being attracted to someone is normal ----- even if you have a happy marriage. But being attracted doesn't mean falling into adultery.

Every time you think of the other woman, discipline your heart and say, 'Home, boy, Home!' and escort your heart back to your wife. Because if you feed your attraction with fantasies and constantly think about the other woman, it grows.

But if you starve your attraction, it dies

100 Truths

2008-05-08T19:50:00.000-07:00

This is supposed to be 100 questions, but some items are missing.

001. Real name: Michelle Leelin Rivera
002. Nickname: Mich/Minggay/Ming
003. Married: yes
004. Zodiac sign: Gemini
005. Male or female: female
006. Elementary: Dominican College
007. Highschool: Dominican College (pa din)
008. College : Asia Pacific College
009. Location: Mandaluyong
010. Hair color: Black
011. Long or short: medium length
012. Smoke: not anymore...
013. Drink: occasionally
014. Availability: weekends
015. Are you a health freak: sometimes
016. Height: 5'2"
017. Do you have a crush on someone: no
018. Do you like yourself: ofcourse
019. Piercings: ears
020. Tattoos: none
021. Righty or Lefty: righty

FIRSTS:
022. First surgery: episiotomy
023. First piercing: when i was a baby
024. First best friend: rikka mae
025. First award: can't remember
026. First sport you joined: tagu-taguan =D
027. First pet: dog (pop)
028. First vacation: i don't know
029. First concert: Moffats
030. First crush: ryan, he is my cousin's cousin :p

wher's 31 - 48??

CURRENTLY:
049. Eating?: chippy
050. Drinking: nescafe ice

wher's 51??

052. I’m about to: reply to my team
053. Listening to: keyboard clicks

FAVORITES:
054. Food: ice cream. popcorn, mangoes
055. Drinks: water, fruit shakes, ice coffee
056. Color: white and yellow
057. Numbers: 30

MY FUTURE:
058. Want kids: I already have one
059. Want to get married: i'm already married
060. Careers in mind: i want to be a WHAM - work at home mom (career ba un??)

where's 61-67?

WHICH IS BETTER?
068. Lips or eyes: eyes
069. Hugs or kisses: hugs
070. Shorter or taller: taller

where's 71?

072. Romantic or Spontaneous: both
073. Nice stomach or nice arms: nice arms
074. Sensitive or loud: sensitive
075. Hook-up or relationship: relationship

where's 76?

077. Trouble maker or Hesitant: Trouble maker

HAVE YOU EVER:
078. Kissed a stranger? no
079. Drank bubbles: no
080. Lost glasses/contacts: yes
081. Ran away from home: ran away at night but go back early morning. lol.
082. Liked someone younger: yes
083. Older: yes
084. Broken someone's heart: maybe
085. Been arrested: no
086. Turned someone down: yes
087. Cried when someone died: yup :c
088. Liked a friend: yes

DO YOU BELIEVE IN:
089. Yourself: yes
090. Miracles: yes
091. Love at first sight: yes
092. Heaven: YES
093. Santa Claus: no
094. Sex on the first date: no
095. The more you hate, the more you love: no
096. Angels: yes and I wan to be one

ANSWER TRUTHFULLY:
097. Is there one person you want to be with you right now? yes
098. Had more than one boyfriend/girlfriend at a time? never
099. Do you believe in God? YES
100. Post as 100 Truths: yes

aftershock

2008-05-05T05:23:00.000-07:00

I am not in the mood to work today, this is my first day at work since I've been gone for almost 2 weeks. Out of four SIRs (bugs) that were assigned to me, I only solved one. I can't focus on the the things that I should do after what happened to mama. I just want to stay home with my family whom I find the comfort that I needed. I don't want to be alone because I will only remember the days when she was slowly dying. That has been torture among us.

April 22, 2008 7:30, mama was rushed in the hospital. She was found unconscious outside her room. When I saw her at the emergency, she was already conscious as if waiting for the rest of us, but her movement wasn't normal anymore, she couldn't even utter any words. I saw her eyes, she looked terrified so I held her hand, whispered to her that everything is going to be alright and kissed her forehead. After awhile, she had seizure and loss her consciousness. I cried so much , it hurts so much seeing her in too much pain.

Several doctors talked to us, they told us that mama suffered from aneurysm which is one of the complication of her kidney problem, her hypertension also triggered it. They also told us that operation wasn't possible anymore, because her aneurysm was already in stage 5, blood was already scattered on her head. They cannot do anything about it, they just suggested to transfer mama from ICU to ward so we can spend the remaining time with her.

We spent time with her, we stayed at the hospital up to the last beat of her heart. We talked to her, said our goodbyes, prayed for her. We knew she can still hear us that time, so we made the most out of it. We surrendered her to the Lord, we learned to let her go to end her sufferings.

I miss her so much. I know someday we'll see each other again. I know she's in good hands right now. I should be happy because her pain has ended, in heaven she will be contented, she will be happy watching us.

company outing

2008-04-10T00:55:00.000-07:00

We had our team outing at Sabangan Laiya Batangas last April 5-6, Lila and her yaya also joined the fun. Here are some pics :

On the way to Batangas.

mantao's favorites shot

peeeeeek - aaaaaaa

boooooo!

We're here,

mommy n lila

emote?

very happy face!

group pic with my team

The Secret to a Lasting Marriage - Deb Graham

2008-04-09T18:48:00.000-07:00

When I was a little girl, my mom liked to make breakfast food for dinner every now and then. And I remember one night in particular when she had made breakfast after a long, hard day at work.

On that evening so long ago, my mom placed a plate of eggs, sausage, and extremely burned toast in front of my dad. I remember waiting to see if anyone noticed! Yet all my dad did was reach for his toast, smile at my mom, and ask me how my day was at school.

I don't remember what I told him that night, but I do remember watching him smear butter and jelly on that toast and eat every bite! When I got up from the table that evening, I remember hearing my mom apologize to my dad for burning the toast. And I'll never forget what he said: "Baby, I love burned toast."

Later that night, I went to kiss Daddy good night and I asked him if he really liked his toast burned. He wrapped me in his arms and said, "Debbie, your momma put in a hard day at work today and she's real tired. And besides¬a little burnt toast never hurt anyone!"

In bed that night, I thought about that scene at dinner...and the kindness my daddy showed my mom. To this day, it's a cherished memory from my childhood that I'll never forget. And it's one that came to mind just recently when Jack and I sat down to eat dinner.

I had arrived home late...as usual...and decided we would have breakfast food for dinner. Some things never change, I suppose!

To my amazement, I found the ingredients I needed, and quickly began to cook eggs, turkey sausage, and buttered toast. Thinking I had things under control, I glanced through the mail for the day. It was only a few minutes later that I remembered that I had forgotten to take the toast out of the oven!

Now, had it been any other day -- and had we had more than two pieces of bread in the entire house -- I would have started all over. But it had been one of those days and I had just used up the last two pieces of bread. So burnt toast it was!

As I set the plate down in front of Jack, I waited for a comment about the toast. But all I got was a "Thank you!" I watched as he ate bite by bite, all the time waiting for some comment about the toast. But instead, all Jack said was, "Babe, this is great. Thanks for cooking tonight. I know you had a hard day."

As I took a bite of my charred toast that night, I thought about my mom and dad...how burnt toast hadn't been a deal-breaker for them. And I quietly thanked God for giving me a marriage where burnt toast wasn't a deal-breaker either!

You know, life is full of imperfect things...and imperfect people. I'm not the best housekeeper or cook. And you might be surprised to find out that Jack isn't the perfect husband! He likes to play his music too loud, he will always find a way to avoid yard work, he watches far too many sports & play the whole night with warcraft. Believe it or not, watching "Golf Academy" is not my idea of a great night at home!

But somehow in the past 37 years Jack and I have learned to accept the imperfections in each other. Over time, we have stopped trying to make each other in our own mold and have learned to celebrate our differences. You might say that we've learned to love each other for who we really are!

For example, I like to take my time, I'm a perfectionist, and I'm even-tempered. I tend to work too much and sleep too little. Jack, on the other hand, is disciplined, studious, an early riser, and is a marketer's dream consumer. I count pennies and Jack could care less! Where he is strong, I am weak, and vice versa.

And while you might say that Jack and I are opposites, we're also very much alike. I can look at him and tell you what he's thinking. I can predict his actions before he finalizes his plans. On the other hand, he knows whether I'm troubled or not the moment I enter a room.

We share the same goals. We love the same things. And we are still best friends. We've traveled through many valleys and enjoyed many mountaintops. And yet, at the same time, Jack and I must work every minute of every day to make this thing called "marriage" work!

What I've learned over the years is that learning to accept each other's faults - and choosing to celebrate each other's differences - is the one of the most important keys to creating a healthy, growing, and lasting marriage relationship.

day dreaming

2008-04-02T02:37:00.000-07:00

lately i've been day dreaming of having our church wedding, i've been surfing for wedding stories, wedding ideas, wedding suppliers, wedding themes etc. this started when sheryl told me that she and arman will tie the knot next year, i felt happy for them at same time envious.

mantao and i only had a civil wedding because lila came earlier than we expected. due to lack of preparation and the anticipation of the delivery cost, we opted for the inexpensive way to get married. we have plans for a church wedding but we don't know when. we want our wedding to be memorable, we want it to be grand, we want all our friends to be part of it and we want lila to shower the flowers, so we're saving for that.

just something that i've been waiting to come true.

hyperthyroidism

2008-03-31T23:39:00.000-07:00

I had my check up for my thyroid yesterday. I also had the results of TSH, FT3, Ft4 tests, the results is not normal, as I've already expected. I have an active thyroid glands which makes my heart palpitates, makes me tired and perspires easily and makes my metabolism fast. The latter is ok for me, because I won't gain much, no matter how much I eat =D . But I have to drink a lot of meds to make it normal, here are my doctor's prescriptions:

Tapdin 5 mg
for 1st 2 weeks
AM: 2 tablets
NN: 2 tablets
PM: 2 tablets

for next 2 weeks
AM: 2 tablets
PM: 2 tablets

Inderal 10 mg
AM: 1 tablet
PM: 1 tablet

Vigor ace
AM - 1 capsule

Supranueron
NN- 1 tablet

Hopefully these will make me better.

finally long weekend

2008-03-18T00:21:00.000-07:00

one more day to go before i have my long vacation. Not that exciting because mantao (my husband who is currently working at Japan) is not around and we'll be spending the holiday on his mommy's house. i just wish that my baby and i were able to come to Bicol with my brother and mom last sunday but my schedule doesn't allow me and I'm also saving my vacation leave when mantao arrives on May.

i'm also thankful for the vacation. after all, i need a break after taking over the job of our team lead. he is just on leave so this is just temporary, while he is not around. but my angst; only two days had passed but it already feels like a week. but at least i already know the feeling, how hard it is, how much pressure etc.. hopefully after three to four years, i will be in that position for real. =)

inside the room of my soul

2008-03-06T18:38:00.001-08:00

This is my first entry and I don't what to post. O well, here's something that I can share:

I took the Inside the Room of Your Soul test and here's what I've got:

What Your Soul Really Looks Like

You are a warm hearted and open minded person. It's easy for you to forgive and forget.

You are a very grounded, responsible, and realistic person. People may not want to hear the truth from you, but they're going to get it.

You believe that people see you as larger than life and important. While this is true, they also think you're a bit full of yourself.

Your near future is calm, relaxing, and pretty much what you want. And it's something you've been anticipating for a while now.

For you, falling in love is all about flirting and feeling playful. You couldn't fall in love with someone who took life too seriously.