Our living room improvement project is underway courtesy of my husband's brother-in-law. The final color combination of the room will look like this. However, I'll choose a darker color of the sofa. I hope that the brown and peach combination sofa set I saw two weeks ago is still available at the furniture shop near our place. 

I'm into detox drinks now. I regularly drink honey, lemon and warm water first thing in the morning. With this new addiction, I started a herbal garden at home. 

A friend posted a photo of her own version of Cucumber and Lemon Detox Water. She said that she had a hard time looking for mint leaves. Coincidentally, I already have a mint plant and I promised to give her a pot of mint so that she can also grow her own at home. I handed it to her last night. She liked it and even took a photo of my 'minty' gift. 

Do you want to receive a herbal gift from me? Name it and I will look for it and give it to you. :) 

We'll be having the Year-end Thanksgiving Worship Services for the young members of the Church tomorrow, 14 December 2013. My daughter will be performing in the choir. I thank God because she's okey now, she had suffered a sprained knee after jumping from the teacher's table the other day. According to her teacher, the accident happened while he was out from the room after his class. 

I have a quite long list of tasks this coming weekend which include the following: 

Saturday 

Sunday 

• wet market and grocery, early in the morning 
• add new plants and arrange my mini garden
• cook food for lunch 
• do the laundry 
• playtime and afternoon nap with the kiddos 

Research and report writing are my forte. Public speaking, on the other hand is my weakness. I don't know why I fear facing the crowd regardless how big or small the audience is. I am not sure if it is because of the some not-so-good experiences during my college days. I got mocked a not one but two professors because of my regional accent. Since then, I accepted that I can excel in written communication but not in the areas of public speaking. 

Reality check...the scope of my job has evolved and I have to accept the fact that my supervisors will assign a task that requires to test my presentation skills. 

I attended a two-day workshop for the formulation of our city's poverty reduction programs for the next 3 years. The organizers requested from our department to assist in the facilitation of the workshops. Thus, I have no choice but to deliver two presentations during the two-day activity. I'm grateful because my colleagues said that my talk went well. I just hope that the participants learned something from my presentations, hehehe... 

Here's my bunso playing with her Tita's phone. I don't have a photo showing my eldest sitting or sleeping in this sofa :)

As soon as the painting of wall is done, I will  start buying furnitures for the living room... :)

Family bonding in Tagaytay is one of the items in my bucket list. I wish that we could go there next year, during my husband's vacation. 

This amazing room rates from Summit Hotels arrived in my inbox today. I'm thinking of booking a hotel room. Oh well, I have to consult my better half regarding this. 

Catch the Summit Hotels' marketing group in Robinsons Galleria and other Robinson malls to avail amazing deals. 

Did I already tell you that I have a green thumb, thus I can grow plants beautifully. I have grown ornamental plants before but some naughty cats destroyed them. 

Since I am looking for a stress reliever, I decided to revive my mini garden next to our windows. I started last week by planting some ornamental and herbs. I have some hanging plants, too. 

I'm dreaming of having lots of flowering plants and herbs in my garden. I already have Citronella, Oregano and Mint.

While searching for bits and pieces about gardening, I bumped into cool websites that contain ideas and inspiration on growing plants in small spaces. Ohh I have lots of ideas in mind right now. I am so excited to see my garden full of greens, hahaha.

We're on the way to accomplishing Item No. 4 in our Home Improvement Plan which is to convert an existing room into a cozy living room. The kids are fascinated with soft cushions and pillows in my sister-n-law's sofa. They love jumping and even taking a short nap there. So, my husband and I decided to re-organize and repaint the bedroom at the 2nd floor of our apartment. 

This will be an exciting project for my and the kids in preparation for New Year's celebration. My niece and I will be the one to paint the walls. We'll buy a new sofa very very soon. L-shape sofa is my first choice for it's perfect for a small living room. Papa promised to give us extra budget so that we can also buy a DVD videoke player. 

Meanwhile, let me show the themes I have in mind. 

Which design do you like best? 

photos are the not mine, credits to the original owners

One lucky winner will win a Playroom Suite Showcase comprise of the following furniture pieces which is perfect for a child's playroom. 

 

Two Tots is one of the participating vendors in the upcoming Mommy Mundo Bazaar on December 8, 2013, 10am to 6pm at the Rockwell Tent. If you'll join this giveaway, I encourage you to come to the event, drop by the Two Tots booth, take of photo of yourself and purchase anything from them. If you do this, you will bonus entries. Visit the contest page >>> http://mommypages.com.ph/twototspromo/ for full details. GOOD LUCK! 

The outreach project of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church of Christ) called Kabayan Ko, Kapatid Ko (Aid to Humanity) launched its official website yesterday, November 18, 2013 at the Manila Hotel.  The "Kabayan Ko, Kapatid Ko" project was launched in April 2013 to implement the INC's two-fold mission of edifying its flock and evangelizing the words of God worldwide. 

The website is located at:  www.kabayankokapatidko.org

Brother Bienvinido Santiago opened the ceremony by introducing the "Kabayan Ko, Kapatid ko" project. He said that the project is a worldwide campaign involving all members of the Iglesia Ni Cristo as led by the Executive Minister Brother Eduardo V. Manalo to extend aid not only to our countrymen here in the Philippines but also on other parts of the world. 

Bro. Joel San Pedro led the walkthrough for the guests, and members of the press on the website including the features, contents, and other relevant information for the site visitors as the browse the site. There is also a section on the Introduction of the Church of Christ, its doctrines, origin, mission, and schedule of worship services. 

                                 screen shot of the Kabayan Ko, Kapatid Ko official website 

The website features the project's latest relief operation and medical mission in Ormoc City, one of the hard-hit areas of super typhoon Yolanda which struck the nation last November 8. 

I am inviting you all to visit the "Kabayan Ko, Kapatid Ko" website. Thank you! 

photo/text credits: https://www.facebook.com/KabayankoKapatidko

November 8, 2013, a dreadful day for the Filipinos especially those living in the southern regions. It was the day that the super-typhoon Yolanda (international codename:Haiyan) struck the Philippines. Days before its expected landfall, early warnings have been issued by concerned government agencies for it might develop into a super-typhoon. I closely monitored the storm signal on TV and on the Internet because I know that my loved ones in Sorsogon (Bicol Region) will be affected by the typhoon. I did not report for work on Friday, to closely keep in touch with them. Thank's God, they were spared by the wrath of Yolanda. The mango tree in our backyard was uprooted  and our roof needs to be repaired as soon as possible. 

I witnessed how fast the floodwater upsurged through the live TV coverage until the lines of communication was cut. It was only Sunday, that's two days after the most devastating typhoon occured, when I learned how widespread the damage is. According to the reports, Tacloban City  and Basey, Samar are the worst hit areas. I was speechless, depressed, and I prayed for the survivors who lost their loved ones, properties, and means of livelihood. They really need our help. 

Ironically, there are several reports that search and rescue, and relief operations is slow-moving. In fact, the media and the netizens are calling the attention of the government officials especially President Aquino to expedite the relief operations as many of the survivors are experiencing grief and hunger. Even the neighboring LGUs have no supplies anymore. They need food, clothing, temporary shelter, medicine. They need our compassion, they need our prayers. 

They are many ways to help. 

Iglesia Ni Cristo's Lingap sa Mamamayan (Aid to Humanity Program) 

Contrary to the negative reports about Iglesia Cristo that allegedly refused to open its doors to the victims during the occurence of typhoon Yolanda, relief assistance, health care and other immediate services are continously given to the victims of disasters. Repacking of relief good are being conducted in New Era University (Quezon City), and in other center in Cebu. This is done through the supervision of Felix Y. Manalo Foundation, Inc. 

Government and Private Organization 

DSWD, Philippine Red Cross, ABS-CBN Foundation, GMA Foundation, Ayala Foundation, and Gawad Kalinga ar just some of the many channels for your donations. Visit this LINK for the complete list of open relief operation center, compiled by rappler.com.

Here in our office, we will be donating clothes, blankets and towels for our officemates' families in Ormoc and Capiz. 

Let us not lose hope, we can recover from this tragic phenomenon through strong faith in God! Bangon, mga Kababayan ko!!! 

Let us help in every little way we can. Use these hashtags for your Tweets and Facebook posts. 

Another Pinoy Pride! A Filipina student from Australia emerged as the 2013 Junior Champion in NSW Premier's Spelling Bee. 

Abigail Carungay from Carlingford Public School is the new junior champion after defeating Anja Myer in the final round of the competition. Abigail was supported by her parents Jon and Rachel who were as nervous as their daughter through out the three-hour contest. Proud father Jon was full of praise for the other contestants, "They were all good spellers and some got caught on very hard words" (Source:702 ABC Sydney).

I personally know Bro. Jon and Sis. Rachel as we've worked together in some projects of Iglesia Ni Cristo. Both of them are IT professionals who migrated in Australia last year. I am very happy for their daughter Abby's achievement. 

the Junior Champ carrying her big trophy (Source: Jon Carungay)

I asked Jon's permission about featuring her daughter here on my blog. I instantly got his approval and said, "It can be Abigail share in inspiring our young brethren to do good not just in their studies, but most of all in trusting and serving our Lord God." 

I will share Abigail success story to my daughter Thea. While we are struggling to learn Math together (smiles), my husband and I will continuously support her to develop her strength which is in English subject and singing. 

Congratulations Abigail!!! 

He was born on the 4th of November 2010, weighed only a little over 6lbs. He's now a chubby, active toddler weighing 33 lbs. (as of last pedia visit). His name is YOHAN AMIEL and he is my son. 

We a simple yet meaningful celebration. Since I have exhausted all my leave credits after my gallbladder surgery last summer, I can't file a leave on the exact date of his natal day. Thus, we had the mini-celebration two days before in advance. Right after Ate Thea's choir rehearsal, we dressed up and went to the nearest mall to eat our lunch. We dined at KFC and then stroll in the mall aftewards. 

 having fun at the Quantum Arcade

Before going home, we bought a Ube-Cheese cake from Goldilocks. 

Ate helped him in blowing the birthday candles :)

A wonderful birthday to you, my baby Yo! 

Hey moms! Prepare your wallets because I am sure there will lots of cute and functional finds in the upcoming Mommy Mundo Bazaar. 

See you there!!!

After years of planning about having our own internet connection at home, we finally got one! Thanks to Globe for the fast processing and installation. I applied via online last Tuesday, October 22 and after few phone interviews, my application was approved. I subscribed to Globe Tattoo Wimax 1mbps data only plan, originally priced at Php999 but since they have a promo, we will only pay Php799 a month. Lock-in period is 24 months.

Though I read some negative reviews about this particular internet connection, I am willing to give it a try. I have read that connection speed varies depending on the location. Good thing that my location is covered within the so-called Wimax radius. 

I hope that this brand new internet connection will give me fast and reliable service. Communicating with my husband is now easier and cheaper through Skype, Yahoo Messenger and various social media platforms. I can update my blogs more often, too.

Nuffnang Philippines announced that the Blogopolis 2013 will be held on November 16, 2013 at Hotel Intercontinental Manila. This year's event will focus on the benefits of social media and other digital platforms for bloggers, social media influencers, students, and adverstisers. The hashtag #IntoTheWild means "Weaving Information for Leaders of the Digital World." 

Blogopolis 2013 is a day-long event starting with plenary sessions in the afternoon, and a post-conference party at night where key influencers in the industry will be awarded. This event is open to everyone - bloggers, social media influencers, students, digital marketing officers, and advertisers, and anyone who is interested in the world of digital, particularly social media. 

Head on the Blogopolis 2013 website for more information about the topics, resource speakers, guests, and how to buy tickets.

My blogger friend and I attended the Blogopolis last year at Makati Shang-rila. We learned at lot from the speakers plus we got the opportunity to meet well-known personalities in the industry. Last year’s Blogopolis focused on engaging and educating the bloggers of the ever-growing Filipino blogosphere. The conference covered topics related to blogging and its four pillars - Content, Marketing, Monetization and Advocacy. It also served as an introduction to the blogging industry with the goal of helping our community further their blogging skill set and knowledge.

I want to join again this year because Mr. Jim Paredes, a multi-talented artist, performer and writer will be the event's Keynote Speaker. I read his blog haringliwanag.pansitan.net

Thousands of Iglesia Ni Cristo members and visitors/guests are A Metro Manila-wide medical/dental mission, relief operation and Grand Evangelical Mission (GEM) is now on-going in Quiapo, Manila. 

Based on the updates posted on Kabayan Ko, Kapatid Ko Facebook Page, as of 7:30 AM, almost a million of people are now within the Isetann Complex ground(one of the 6 sites of today's event) and waiting for their turn to avail the free medical and dental services offered by Iglesia Ni Cristo's #KabayanKoKapatidKo project. 

This is another historical event of Iglesia Ni Cristo as a prelude to the Church's Centennial Celebration in July 27, 2014. 

To God Be the Glory! 

Thank you Electrolux  and Earthlingorgeous for picking me as winner in the Wash Loads of Love with Frontload Electrolux Washing Machine. 

My officemates are planning out-of-town trips this month and early next year. They've been asking me if I'll go with them. I declined because of two reasons: (1) we are saving up for a number of home improvement projects in the  months of November- December, and (2) we are re planning to go to my hometown in April 2014. 

As the kids are growing up, we want to re-create our humble abode into a safe, kid-friendly, and relaxing one. 

To tell you more about our home improvement plan, I'd like to share the following list which include the portions of house that need to be repaired / renovated / re-organized. I made this list while I'm on leave, after my gallbladder operation last May. 

notice the different shades of varnish/paint in the stairs which is also included in the plan

this photo was taken during Thea's 5th birthday.  

Our target is to accomplish  items 2 to 4 by the end of the year. 

This is the shortest among his vacation since year 2010. Usually, he got to stay with us for at least two months. But, I tell you, it was one of the most memorable "reunions" we had.

Papa, Thea and I went to Greenhills Shopping Center last August 19. We also ate at LukYuen restaurant where the little girl enjoyed the Chicken Bento so much.  Likewise, the Zaballa's went crazy over pizza, chit-chats, and wacky shots in the afternoon. 

Introducing....JN - our pretty and chubby grandchild :)

It was our 8th wedding anniversary last August 20 but the simple celebration happened on the 21st. We took the kids to SM Megamall. The original plan was to let them play arcade games but we ended up watching "Planes". They enjoyed the popcorn err the movie hehehe...By the way, it is their first time to watch  a full-length fim on the big screen. Bunso kept on telling me "uwi na tayo" hahaha. 

August 26 was the most hectic day. We went to Divisoria early in the morning to buy husband's essential things like work clothes, face towels, t-shirts, socks, etc. I had an opportunity to buy some kitchen utensils, too. It was my Tatay's (my father-in-law) 83rd birthday celebration, buti nakahabol pa kami sa picture-taking. The fact is, they really waited for us because for the first time after (I think) 5 years, the Zaballa siblings are complete.

We attended Thea's school activity on September 2. It was the culminating activity for the Buwan ng Wika at the same time Sayaw  Patimpalak (interpretative dance competition) among all grade levels.

Proper budgeting and saving for future needs such as home improvement project, children's education and  our dream vacation were the usual topics discussed by my husband and me during our "serious" moments :)

I'll tell you about more about the home improvement project soon.