It's William's First Birthday Party!!! After planning William's first birthday party, the big day has arrived. We had lots of well-wishers and the party was a huge success. We had an entertainer who did some balloon twisting and face painting. Happy Birthday, my love!!! I know you were very tired but the success of the party goes to show how much you are loved by so many people. Kisses to you and may we have more fun birthday parties to come!!!!Yeah!!!
Showing posts with label life. Show all posts
Showing posts with label life. Show all posts
Monday, March 22, 2010
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, WILLIAM!!!!
Saturday, January 10, 2009
Baby Stuff
Here are some stuff that we got over the break. One great way to greet the New Year. Everyday was just a day of adventure, hunting and discovering stuff. Mind you, my aunt and her daughter in-law were of great help in finding the best stuff for the baby.
1. The Nursery-Babies R Us has it all. 
Theme: Baby Cocoa -more of like cute little jungle animals. My Mom calls it the Jungle Book.
2. The Stroller- Bugaboo Frog from Right Start
Thanks to my aunt, this was our Christmas present. I've been hearing lots of people raving about Bugaboo and even the clerks from every store I went to say that it's the Cadillac of prams. Well, it really is quite impressive. Just 20 pounds and this pram changes to a regular stroller from a bassinet. You can also attach your infant car seat if you like. What's so special? It's light, very modern, and probably it can handle any kind of terrain---just like a car. Yes folks, you need to put air in its cute wheels.
3. The Car Seat-Maxi Cosi Mico in Black
There are only three car seats that are compatible to Bugaboo. Maxi Cosi was priced reasonably with good quality features.
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Half-way Mark!
There are a lot of things I'm thankful for. A week ago, I found out that I am having a baby boy and that everything is normal. Other than that, I'm on my 20th week of pregnancy. I've hit the half-way mark. 20 more weeks to go and I'll be meeting my little one. I can't wait!
Sunday, August 17, 2008
After the Wedding...
Baby Bowman at 8 weeks!
Baby Bowman at 13 weeks!
is this.
Hoping to have a safe and healthy pregnancy.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Tied the Knot!
with the Best Men
Bridal Party
Nephews
with Parents
at last!
Petal Toss
Cake Slicing
Finally, the wedding is over and everything went well. It was almost a year of preparation, a month of being with family from Scotland and the Philippines, a week of people from all over the States, and a lifetime of memories. The wedding was wonderful.Sunday, April 13, 2008
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Feminine...told you so!
Who want's to be a Stepford Wife?
This is an interesting blog from one of my links. I want to laugh my head off to all those who said that we don't need men to live. In reality, we do. To what extent? I don't know. This totally contradicts my first blog. Sorry but my belief has changed. Typical woman ...me, right?
Read this and laugh.
***
Late on a weekday night, I found myself at my friend’s elegant New York apartment enjoying a cup of herbal tea after an utterly uninteresting night out. We’ll call my friend Rio because his background includes a decade long stay in Brazil, as well residence in several other South American countries. As we sunk into the sofa listening to Portuguese love songs we got to discussing (surprise surprise) the enigma that is male-female relationships.
“Describe sexy,” he prompted me.
I went on to pause, gather my thoughts and illustrate sexy as:
“Confident, independent, and strong.”
“Interesting,” he replied. “Because I’d describe sexy as vulnerable, dependant and warm.”
Thus ensued a conversation in which we dissected our theories about the difference between Italo-Latin and American love.
In a nutshell, Rio made the point that Brazilian woman are experts at being feminine – they’re used to relying on men. They constantly ask men to do things for them with the charm of a child and males relish in attending to their every need since it makes men feel ‘like the shit.’ Interesting, right? Because as girls growing up in America the mantra is that we can do everything ourselves, should strive for utter independence, and never rely on men for anything. Ever. To which Rio responded:
“You’re never going to keep a man like that. Okay, you’re never going to keep a Latin man like that. Men stick with the woman who makes him feel like he’s ‘the man.’ He wants you to ask him to do things for you.”
“Wouldn't I be bothering him?”
“Are you kidding? If he loves you and can fulfill your needs that’ll be the high point of his day. That’s the feeling he’s going to crave and come back for: Validation of his worth.”
Me: “I guess that does explain why so many guys I like end up with stupid, silent, needy lapdog girlfriends.”
Rio: “Those girls aren’t as stupid as they look. They’ve learned to use their feminine vulnerability to keep men. Again, if I want someone independent who didn’t need me I could hang out with my co-workers. That isn’t what male-female relationships are about.”
“But don’t you want a best friend? An equal?”
“Best friend, yes. An equal…”
“OMG this so wrong.”
“No, no, no. You’re misunderstanding. Yes, an equal. But American women often seem so busy proving their independence that they miss out on the whole tango of love that’s about how men and women fundamentally need each other.”
“You just said ‘tango,’ didn’t you?”
“Why would I be interested in a woman who doesn’t need me?”
“I thought men liked the unattainable. That they like to chase things.”
“True. But once he’s got you, he doesn’t want to hear about other guys and how ‘independent’ of a superwoman you are.”
“So basically I gotta get vulnerable, when my life mission since puberty has been to never appear vulnerable.”
“Yeah. And get feminine.”
I gesture to my outfit, “I am feminine!”
“You look feminine. But you don’t act it. You’re so guarded.”
“Because men are assholes!”
“You came in here and just made yourself your own tea. You never even asked me if I wanted some.”
“You were in the other room. And since when do non-British guys like tea?”
“Being feminine means focusing on the five senses. Scent, smell, touch. Slow down! Enjoy life. Be caring like a mother, innocent and playful like a little girl.”
“Gross." I stop to think, "I have no idea how to do that.”
“Americans get divorced cause they got it all wrong. Women are meant to be feminine. Embrace it. Use it in your work life too. You’ll get ahead and manipulate men even better. Doesn’t mean you aren’t smart.”
“Does this femininity project mean I can’t talk and make jokes? I mean, that’s a big part of my personality. I verbally run a mile a second.”
“Of course, be yourself. Although at least at the beginning, with women, less is more.”
“I can’t believe I’m hearing this.”
“You act the way you do right now and go to where you’re going on Brasil, not one guy is going to talk to you.”
“That would be tragic.”
“Cater. Ask him to do things for you. Play along. If he loves you, he’ll feel great accomplishing your tasks. He doesn’t pull through, means he’s not into you. Men will slay lions for the woman they love. They won’t make dinner reservations, but they’ll slay lions.”
“Okay. Let’s try: Rio, will you drive me to JFK when I leave next Monday?”
Rio: “Absolutely fucking not.”
Off my twisted face –
“The asking to do stuff doesn’t include airport transfers.”
Me: “Huh. Good to know.”
Yet another theory to stuff in my carry on.
Those who want to learn more should be directed to the simultaniously ingenious and ridiculous concept of wikiHow which actually has an article about how to be feminine. I'd be lying if I said I didn't skim it.
***
Read this and laugh.
***
Late on a weekday night, I found myself at my friend’s elegant New York apartment enjoying a cup of herbal tea after an utterly uninteresting night out. We’ll call my friend Rio because his background includes a decade long stay in Brazil, as well residence in several other South American countries. As we sunk into the sofa listening to Portuguese love songs we got to discussing (surprise surprise) the enigma that is male-female relationships.
“Describe sexy,” he prompted me.
I went on to pause, gather my thoughts and illustrate sexy as:
“Confident, independent, and strong.”
“Interesting,” he replied. “Because I’d describe sexy as vulnerable, dependant and warm.”
Thus ensued a conversation in which we dissected our theories about the difference between Italo-Latin and American love.
In a nutshell, Rio made the point that Brazilian woman are experts at being feminine – they’re used to relying on men. They constantly ask men to do things for them with the charm of a child and males relish in attending to their every need since it makes men feel ‘like the shit.’ Interesting, right? Because as girls growing up in America the mantra is that we can do everything ourselves, should strive for utter independence, and never rely on men for anything. Ever. To which Rio responded:
“You’re never going to keep a man like that. Okay, you’re never going to keep a Latin man like that. Men stick with the woman who makes him feel like he’s ‘the man.’ He wants you to ask him to do things for you.”
“Wouldn't I be bothering him?”
“Are you kidding? If he loves you and can fulfill your needs that’ll be the high point of his day. That’s the feeling he’s going to crave and come back for: Validation of his worth.”
Me: “I guess that does explain why so many guys I like end up with stupid, silent, needy lapdog girlfriends.”
Rio: “Those girls aren’t as stupid as they look. They’ve learned to use their feminine vulnerability to keep men. Again, if I want someone independent who didn’t need me I could hang out with my co-workers. That isn’t what male-female relationships are about.”
“But don’t you want a best friend? An equal?”
“Best friend, yes. An equal…”
“OMG this so wrong.”
“No, no, no. You’re misunderstanding. Yes, an equal. But American women often seem so busy proving their independence that they miss out on the whole tango of love that’s about how men and women fundamentally need each other.”
“You just said ‘tango,’ didn’t you?”
“Why would I be interested in a woman who doesn’t need me?”
“I thought men liked the unattainable. That they like to chase things.”
“True. But once he’s got you, he doesn’t want to hear about other guys and how ‘independent’ of a superwoman you are.”
“So basically I gotta get vulnerable, when my life mission since puberty has been to never appear vulnerable.”
“Yeah. And get feminine.”
I gesture to my outfit, “I am feminine!”
“You look feminine. But you don’t act it. You’re so guarded.”
“Because men are assholes!”
“You came in here and just made yourself your own tea. You never even asked me if I wanted some.”
“You were in the other room. And since when do non-British guys like tea?”
“Being feminine means focusing on the five senses. Scent, smell, touch. Slow down! Enjoy life. Be caring like a mother, innocent and playful like a little girl.”
“Gross." I stop to think, "I have no idea how to do that.”
“Americans get divorced cause they got it all wrong. Women are meant to be feminine. Embrace it. Use it in your work life too. You’ll get ahead and manipulate men even better. Doesn’t mean you aren’t smart.”
“Does this femininity project mean I can’t talk and make jokes? I mean, that’s a big part of my personality. I verbally run a mile a second.”
“Of course, be yourself. Although at least at the beginning, with women, less is more.”
“I can’t believe I’m hearing this.”
“You act the way you do right now and go to where you’re going on Brasil, not one guy is going to talk to you.”
“That would be tragic.”
“Cater. Ask him to do things for you. Play along. If he loves you, he’ll feel great accomplishing your tasks. He doesn’t pull through, means he’s not into you. Men will slay lions for the woman they love. They won’t make dinner reservations, but they’ll slay lions.”
“Okay. Let’s try: Rio, will you drive me to JFK when I leave next Monday?”
Rio: “Absolutely fucking not.”
Off my twisted face –
“The asking to do stuff doesn’t include airport transfers.”
Me: “Huh. Good to know.”
Yet another theory to stuff in my carry on.
Those who want to learn more should be directed to the simultaniously ingenious and ridiculous concept of wikiHow which actually has an article about how to be feminine. I'd be lying if I said I didn't skim it.
***
When you're done, you may secretly look at the wikiHow on being feminine. Just an after thought. See how thoughful I am.
Follow these steps to become more feminine and give off a better impression to those around you.
Steps
Also, try to keep your hair out of your face.
Wear only as much makeup as you need.
Always have powder handy wherever you go. Keep make-up minimal. You decide how much, but too much isn't very attractive. Many may view you as insecure and in reality not very beautiful if you wear too much to cover up. If you use more then 10 minutes in front of the mirror, you should think about toning it down.
Wear neat but conservative clothes. Really short skirts come across as slutty, not feminine.
Don't be loud and obnoxious. This is a male trait and people believe you to be more masculine than you actually are.
Don't fish for compliments. Fishing is also a male trait. Remember, you are a woman. Be confident even if you aren't completely happy with yourself.
Be happy with yourself. Accept your body for what it is and others will love you.
Remove unattractive body hair. Wax your upper lip if necessary and tweeze your eyebrows. Shave your legs (all of them), arms, and back (if it needs it). Hair is disgusting.
Meryl's comment: Uh-oh!!!
Be confident and happy. Nothing is more beautiful than a smiling woman. Just keep your lips together, if you don't like your teeth.
Try not to use profanities. We all do it , but if you could make a sailor blush with your mouth and not your looks, you should think about toning it down.
Be aware of your posture. Chin up high, back straight and thoughts positive.
Be smart. Most people like smart women who are able to have a discussion about something.
Don't make yourself dumb. But also don't be a know-it-all. Accept if a man is right, especially if you like him.
Tips
Tips
Follow these steps, but don't try to be someone you're not! Unless you are hairy, in which case you should probably change a little.
Shower daily, wash your face twice a day, brush and floss your teeth twice a day, and use deodorant!
Be organized and neat with your things. This is a feminine trait (have you noticed that all men are sloppy?) Having a pigsty of a dorm/apartment/house has never been girly.
Meryl's comment: Uh--oh!
Confidence isn't about using a bold tone of voice or always appearing happy and solid. To be genuine, confidence must be about knowing yourself really well and being brave enough to be yourself in public without being pushy, defensive, or embarrassed. It takes a long time. But stick in there, girlfriend.
Another important point is that you should love yourself, just the way you are.
I take back that last point. Be the change you want to see in your life.
***
To check out more juicy blog stories, check out http://www.girlspoke.com/
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Saturday, February 23, 2008
Butterfly Kisses
My Dad will be with me during my wedding. I am so happy that he'll be by my side as he walks me down the aisle. My dad has been my partner in crime and constant companion through the years. What more can I ask for?
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Wedding Escapade Series- PAPARAZZI
Who would've thought that photographers nowadays cost an arm and a leg? Well, the last of my wedding escapade was all about getting a photographer. My brother offered his services and said that he'd do it for free. At the back of my mind, I was thinking that this was such a great idea in terms of how much we would be able to save. Alan then told me that if something goes wrong though, I wouldn't want my brother and myself to feel crappy. Also, I wouldn't want my brother to feel pressured during the event.
To prove how naive I am with the latest trends in photography, I thought that it was still the traditional layout wherein you could choose the pictures you like and the photgraphers would just do the layouting for you. Well, I was wrong. It's totally different now. All the photographers we've been to are actually into the "magazine" layout style. What does this mean? Think about the magazines we usually read, it's flat right? That's how albums look like nowadays. Pictures aren't just matted in anymore, they're more artistically presented with the "magazine" format.
I was actually impressed with the pictures and surprised with the prices. I've thought of a way on how I could tell you how much photographers charge in the Kingwood area without actually telling you what the rates really are.(checkout the legend)
***-Tres tres EXPENSIVE
**- Expensive but reasonable compared to a three star
*- Reasonable, still expensive, but who cares...we're running out of time.
Photographer # 1
I have thought that this photographer was on the list of vendors Kingwood Country Club gave us. I was browsing through it and his name isn't listed as a contact. Since we always see this photgrapher's shop along the 1960, we just decided to stop by, take a look at their work, and check what packages they have for weddings. Chris Walter Photography was the name of their shop. Husband and wife operate the business and Mr. Walter looks exactly like Santa. Hohohoho! A funny thing here is that their shop was actually advertising that Santa will be available for pictures this coming December. I wonder who that would be.
Anyway, Chris showed us a variety of albums, styles, and add-ons. The couple were very professional and as I've said earlier, we were very much impressed with the albums they showed us. When we discussed prices and packages, I just took a big gulp because I couldn't believe it. It wasn't the rate I was expecting. I remember mentioning to Alan that we should scout for three more photographers before we made a decision. Alan knew that the was the going rate of photographers in the Kingwood area.
Rate: * *
Photographer # 2
Alan and I decided again to check out the packet Kingwood County Club gave us for contact numbers of their preferred photographers. First on the list was Charles Falk. I gave his office a call and made an appointment in the afternoon. His place was still in the Humble Area but boy was it hard to find. This guy mentioned he didn't need to advertise because he had an abundance of clients. Lucky him then.
Again, it's a husband and wife tandem. Wife is incharge of finding out the details of the wedding and the husband is the master photographer. My impression of Charles is that anyone who'd ever work with him will have a blast because he loves to talk. He kept conversing with Alan the entire time that at one point, I was a little distracted and semi-annoyed. Hello...I'm here for the pictures!
Looking at his work, it's quite obvious that he's been in the business for so long. This was another very professional encounter that made me an immediate fan of all the photographers who take pride in their work.
The downside of this meeting was when the wife gave us their quote, it was way above our budget. For someone who didn't have a budget at that time, I just had to put my foot down and claim that it's not within our budget. This was an obvious one, it wasn't them.
Rate: * * *
Photgrapher # 3
It was actually Mama Florist who recommended this photographer. His name is Steve Tarver. Alan and I actually met up with him in his house after Thanksgiving. We were greeted warmly by his entire family. He told us that taking photographs is a family business and his wife and daughter were part of it. Each one of them had a role to play.
Mama Tarver was incharge of the interviewing, gathering details, and showing off their work. Daughter Tarver was incharge of the business side of things and Papa Tarver was the head honcho.
Most of the information we needed was discussed to us by Daughter Tarver. Their packages were reasonable enough and there were so many freebies included. Since I was aware of the rates, any package they showed me didn't come as a shock anymore.
One thing nice about this family is that they made you feel at home right away. We were even able to insert some humor now and again. The family was also able to recommend some vendors for a band and a minister.
Towards the end of the meeting, Nicole (Daughter Tarver) surprised me with a goody bag. In that bag were coasters, a bottle of water, and some brochures about their business. This was way too good. I had a feeling that they would end up being our official photographers. (Hah! I knew I could be bought)
Thank you, Nicole ;)Rate: *
I was right! By Sunday, November 25, 2007, we were able to finalize our decision and we decided to hire Steve Tarver as our official photographer. Alan and I can't wait to work with them for our engagement shoot and the wedding.
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
At the End of the Day
This is how I feel at the end of the day...aside from gaining 2 pounds in one month (this is a fact, btw). What more can I ask for? Please feel free to comment.
Thursday, November 8, 2007
Priceless Artwork
Diva
Pucker Lips
Daydreamer
Straight
The Art teacher in our school had a wonderful project for my students. Obviously it was to draw their teacher in the finest way possible. Everything my students did were priceless. If you look at it thoroughly, you will see how each child sees me through their eyes. Total coolness.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
