Mumsified

Naga World: Dimsum all you can eat

2012-02-01T11:29:00.006+07:00

Last Saturday we celebrated hubby's weight loss of 6kgs by....guess what? Eating! LOL!

I know, it was wrong. But we couldn't help ourselves. The justification is, it's okay to indulge once in a while.

With that in mind, we went to Naga World Hotel. Originally we just wanted to eat at Pangea Restaurant. But the call of dimsum-all-you-can-eat at the Chinese Restaurant was stronger. LOL!

So off we marched to the dimsum place. Hahaha!!!

The place is very nice. I loved their chairs! And for $16/person, it was really worth it. The all-you-can-eat-dimsum is only every Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 3pm.

Kids eat for free so I told EJ to eat a lot. Unfortunately, my son is not a glutton like his parents. LOL! He only had fried rice and a couple of dimsum.

We had siomai, pork ribs, chicken feet, fish balls, fried noodles, etc.

Burp! LOL!

If you're in the mood for dimsum and you want to stuff yourself silly like we did, (hahaha!!!) visit Fortune Palace Restaurant at Naga World Hotel.

Let's choose to smile

2012-01-31T09:37:00.005+07:00

We cannot have everything but that shouldn't stop us from being happy, right?

I have always admired people who can write so well. Sometimes I envy them. But I realized however I try hard to make my posts so well-composed they still lack the magic the real writers have. So I stopped trying hard. Instead I focus on things that I am good at. Like organizing and planning things. I am really good at that. And to be honest, I am perfectly happier now than ever.

Happiness really is a choice. Challenges and trials are always there. It's all up to us how we face them.

I was talking to a friend over an impromtu coffee date yesterday and she said that it's a little hard to smile lately. I told her, you just have to. Choose to smile than to frown. And don't forget to count your blessings instead of counting your misfortunes.

Today, instead of going gaga over elo touch that I can't have, I am counting my blessings and things that have made me smile lately:

~ EJ discovered that fried garlic is yummy, he eats them like chips!
~ I have lost a total of 12kgs over the past 5 month (or is it 6 months?)
~ Hubby has followed my lead about living healthy, he's lost more than 5kgs
~ EJ loves fruits more than chips
~ Our good health
~ Our love for each other
~ Reduced electric bill (last month)
~ Opportunities to help and share
~ Luck with renting out our condo units in Manila

Let's remember that life is a blessing itself and so is our good health. Let's cherish and take care of it.

Happy Tuesday my dear bloggers all over the world!

Brussels' Mini Europe

2012-01-27T14:00:00.010+07:00

It's getting hot in Phnom Penh now. I miss last month's 20-22 degrees temperature. I even miss (just a tad) Paris' and Brussels' cold. Nahh..not really. Hehehe. I just miss travelling. I wish we could travel again soon.

Here are some of our pictures when we were in Mini-Europe in Brussels, Belgium last November. Can you name the monuments in the pictures?

Mini Europe is a great way to see Europe in a few hours. EJ had a great time going through each monument. He particularly loved the working models.

How to Cook Sushi Rice

2012-01-25T10:54:00.006+07:00

A friend asked me how I cooked the sushi rice after I posted a photo of my homemade sushi in this blog.

This was my first sushi. Messy but tasty. LOL!

I got the instructions on how to cook sushi rice from the back cover of the roasted seaweed I bought at the grocery. I forgot which brand.

Ingredients:
3 cups Japanese rice
1/3 cup rice vinegar
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon salt

1) Wash the rice well and cook by rice cooker with water.
2) Prepare Sushi Vinegar: combine vinegar, sugar and salt in pan. Use low heat and cook until sugar dissolves. Cool the mixture.
3) Put the cooked hot rice into a wooden bowl by spatula.
4) Sprinkle the Sushi Vinegar over the rice and gently fold to combine.
5) Cool and remove the moisture of the rice well, use a fan as you mix sushi rice. This will give sushi rice a shiny look.

I never thought it's that easy to make a homemade sushi. Now that I know how, I am sure I'd be experimenting with sushi recipe again soon.

Playdate at home

2012-01-24T06:26:00.003+07:00

I am having visitors later today. EJ has a playdate with his classmates and I have invited the moms to come over as well.

I am going to serve my guests (Korean and Japanese) some Filipino snacks. I bought halayang ube at a Filipino store yesterday and I have some Cebu dried mango as well. I just wish I have a keurig b60 coffee maker so I could serve them fresh coffee. Since I don't have a coffee maker, either I will serve them instant coffee (LOL) or I could offer them my green tea.

I hope they'll like the halayang ube and dried mango. Both are my favorites.

~~

Life is much interesting with little uncertainties on the side, isn't it? Well, that's just me looking at things on the positive side.

It's a busy day today so this is a quick post. Have a great Tuesday everyone!

Please hurry, April

2012-01-24T04:26:00.003+07:00

Yesterday, hubby and I were discussing our planned holidays this year. One that I am looking forward to is the one this coming April. We are going to Philippines!

We will be there for three weeks only. That is so short a time when you're talking about a vacation at home!

So I asked hubby if EJ and I can go home earlier than him so we'll have more time in the Philippines. I assured him, we'll do video teleconferencing everyday until the day he joins us. LOL!

I can hardly wait to go home. I am planning our itineraries now and I would like to squeeze in a short stay at Davao. I have a couple of friends who have been inviting me to visit them. And I loved Davao! I want to see what's new in there.

Hubby on the other hand wants to go to Baguio. I'd like to go there too but I am not sure we have enough time because we are still going home to Surigao. I am excited to attend our town's fiesta again. Plus, there's going to be another mini-reunion with my highschool classmates. Well, I hope.

I wish it's April already.

My homemade sushi and the plan to eat healthy food from now on

2012-01-23T10:59:00.004+07:00

My love for Japanese food has already penetrated into our home. Hubby likes Japanese food now. And I am hoping EJ will soon follow the lead.

Last night, I prepared a homemade sushi for dinner. It was my first try. So please don't laugh at my efforts. LOL!

Here it is.

It looks messy, I know. But for a first trial, the taste was okay. Just never mind the presentation. LOL!

I only used chicken, carrots and egg so EJ could eat as well. And he did. He said it was yummy.

I also prepared a french onion soup. Yup, it was an international cuisine for dinner at home last night. LOL!

I had fun preparing these food and I am happy that my boys eat whatever I serve them. I try to cook as much as possible now and avoid delivery and take away because we're trying to eat more of the unprocessed food. We want to eat healthy together as a family.

We eat more veggies and fruits now. Our bread is whole wheat and we're trying to shift to brown rice. For now, hubby and I eat brown rice sometimes. Hopefully, we will all eat brown rice.

This conscious healthy eating has made me lose more than 20lbs now since August of last year. I've been doing exercises too. Hubby just joined me last December and he has lost about 5kgs already.

A healthy us is what we aim for this year and beyond.

Our 6th

2012-01-19T13:27:00.005+07:00

Yesterday hubby and I celebrated our 6th wedding anniversary. We had a hard time deciding where to have our dinner. So we asked our little man where he wanted to celebrate the occasion with us.

EJ chose La Coupole at Sofitel Phokeethra Phnom Penh. I knew it! He's been saying it's his new favorite restaurant. I know why. It's because of those unlimited sweets and pastries.

Since hubby and I were ambivalent as to which restaurant to go to, we went along with EJ's choice.

I am glad we went to Sofitel because as it turned out, I was craving for salmon sashimi and dimsum. I had an overload of salmon sushimi last night. LOL!

After dinner picture

Happy Anniversary Hon! Everyday (except when I am mad, LOL!) I thank God we found each other in Maldives. I believe we're perfect for one another. You are patient, I am not. You bring in the bacon, I cook it. You are smart, I am smarter. LOL! And lastly, you are pogi and so am I. Hahahaha!!!

Kidding aside, thank you for loving me. I know I have nagging tendencies and a whole lot of craziness but you still love me. I can feel it in my gut that we are gonna grow old together. I love you.

Cheers to more happy and blessed years together!

My Japanese snacks

2012-01-18T11:25:00.006+07:00

EJ had a playdate with his classmate, Osuke in Osuke's house yesterday. On his playdates, I sometimes stay with him and have a chat with the mom. Sometimes, I also just leave EJ. He's at the stage where he doesn't need me to be with him 24/7.

Yesterday, I stayed in Osuke's house and I had a lovely time with Yuki, Osuke's mom. She served me sencha tea and red bean cake.

I love sencha or japanese green tea. I always drink it everyday. But nothing beats an authentic sencha served with an authentic red bean cake from a Japanese herself.

Oh, I was in tea heaven! And the red cake was so yummy! I love japanese food. And I hope I am going to experience japanese culture and authentic japanese food in Japan this year.

Batch '95 Reunion in Dubai

2012-01-17T04:39:00.013+07:00

After our Paris trip last November, we dropped by Dubai for two days and two nights. If only I knew there were so many things to do and see, I would have booked our stay one or two days more.

What made our Dubai stopover more fun is that I got to reconnect with my highschool friends who are now based in UAE. Some are based in Abu Dhabi and some in Dubai. It was a reunion of sorts!

We all met at Dubai Mall for a dinner at Thai restaurant.

With batch '95 - Elvie, AN, Peter (cousin and a classmate), Hadz and Cathy.

Thank you so much guys for the dinner. We love Thai food! And the location of the place you chose was perfect.

EJ enjoyed the water fountain and light show!

Burj Khalifa at the background

After dinner, I went with my classmates to their hotel room while hubby and EJ went back to our hotel. The hotel they booked was near ours. Perfect thinking!

The night just whizzed by! Words continue to flow and laughter reverberated from one corner to the other.

It was a really great night! We would have continued our exchange of stories but it was getting late or should I say it was already early morning and they still had plans of touring my family around that day. So we ended the fun at 3AM.

Later that day, they brought us to Souk Madinat. I love this place! I wished we had more time to explore this place.

We also went to Atlantis...

...and inside The Lost Chambers Aquarium (will make a separate post for this in my travel blog). Atlantis photos courtesy of my cousin/classmate Peter.

And we ended our day with a dinner at Chowking in Jumeirah Walk.

It was so great catching up with you guys! Thank you so much for your hospitality. I wish we could have another of this again soon. I am all game for another mini-reunion this coming May. I hope it happens. I can't wait.

~~~

Whew! I finally finished disposing some of the items at home which we haven't been using anymore. Thank God for the yahoo group here in Cambodia. I sold our iPad2, computer cabinet, Canon digicam and some other knick knacks in a flash! What's funny is that people still email me if the items I posted for sale are still available. Hello, I sold them on the day it was posted. Yup, that's how fast it was. Now, I am thinking of selling my designer bags. If only I could convince hubby I don't need those bags anymore.

My son and his future cravings

2012-01-16T14:01:00.004+07:00

Please meet my current favorite snacks...

Sugar coated cassava with coconut.

Ever since I "discovered" this in Lucky, our local grocery here, I haven't stopped buying this. Sometimes, I feel guilty because it is loaded with sugar. And I mean, lots of sugar!!! By the way, they call this "sugar coated yam".

This has really become my guilty pleasure almost every afternoon. I buy one small pack which costs 50 cents and eat half only so I won't feel too much guilt. LOL! And then I eat the other half the next day. So that's 25 cents per day for my afternoon snacks. Not bad. LOL!

While growing up, we always have lots of rootcrops in our home. There's always cassava and sweet potato. But when I was young, I would rather eat chippy or cheese curls than this organic rootcrops.

But now, a bite of a cassava feels like heaven! I am now always craving for food which I ignored when I was young. Actually the craving now is more intense because cassava is not really so common here. I actually haven't found any cassava in the produce section. Only this cooked one.

Sweet potatoes don't come in truckloads either. There was one time, I was really dying to eat a kamote cue and when I went to the grocery, I could not find a single kamote. I even went to the local market but could not find any!

Last Saturday, while savoring my last bite of the sugar coated cassava, it got me thinking..What food will EJ miss the most from his childhood when is grown up already? What food will he crave like the way I crave now?

EJ is not a picky eater. He eats lots of fruits and veggies. He just sometimes doesn't like eating meat because it gets stuck in his teeth. LOL! But other than that, I can almost make him eat anything. But just like any kid, he loves ice cream. I always have an ice cream in our ref. Don't get me wrong, he eats ice cream maybe once or twice a week only.

Hmmm...so will he miss or crave for a certain flavor of ice cream when his grown up?

If I have my choice, I want him to miss or crave for my home cooked meal. Hahaha!!! Sounds selfish of me, right?

Well, I am just saying that when I am gone, I hope he remembers me for all the right reasons.

Taekwondo..you can take it slow

2012-01-13T10:56:00.004+07:00

EJ has several High 5 DVDs and this blog post title is derived from one of the songs in the series. It's stuck in my mind. LOL!

Anyway, I had EJ try one class of Taekwondo yesterday. It's one of the afterschool program offered by their school.

I thought it's good for him and I'd have another 45 mins of free time. LOL! Seriously, I wanted him to have other forms of fun and exercise.

With the Taekwondo teacher

First day of class

I hang out for a few minutes and made sure he was okay. He kept glancing at me and giving me a thumbs up sign. Wow, good start! So I told him, I'd go out and come back later to pick him up. He said okay.

I actually just went to a nearby cafe and bought a blueberry smoothie for him as I knew he would get thirsty after the class. I went back to the school immediately.

The class was finished after 45 minutes. EJ was smiling when he saw me. I asked him if he enjoyed the class. He said yes. Do you want to go back next week for another class, I asked? No, it wasn't really that fun came the reply. Uh-oh.

I will talk to him again and see if he changed his mind.

Leap Frog

2012-01-11T14:01:00.008+07:00

I just said in my last post that I wish I could instill in EJ the love of numbers because he seems like he's not too keen with numbers. But I think I was getting ahead of myself.

Last Saturday, we bought a Leap Frog Math Circus DVD for him along with other educational DVDs.

Leap Frog Math Circus

It turns out EJ loves watching it just as much as he loves watching his Leap Frog Learning to Read and Story Telling DVD. And he's having fun with it.

There's this game in the DVD where they are asked to answer addition and subtraction quiz. Surprisingly, EJ answered them all correctly. He did use his fingers to count. But it doesn't matter. I mean, I only learned addition and subtraction when I was in Grade 2 already. Might I hope EJ is a genius? Hehehe. Just kidding!

For a parent, I have high hopes for my son. But what's important for me right now is that he knows and feels that his parents love him. I think that is a very important thing for a kid to know while he/she is growing up.

Encourage kids to read early on

2012-01-08T09:10:00.007+07:00

Yesterday, we were all over town running errands and doing some shopping. We actually have no plans of going to Monument Books (they also sell toys) but EJ requested to drop by. Since I was going shopping at Mango (they have a big sale of up to 70% off until 16th of Jan!), it was only fair that we do something that he likes.

But before going in the store, I told him we're not going to buy any more toys for him. Last month, he already bought several toys, not including our gifts and Santa's gift. I said, he could play with the display toys but no shopping for him. However, he could buy one book if he finds something he likes. He said okay. With books, we always stretch our budget.

True to his word, we left the store without any toys but with one book he chose. When we were home, he did read the book right away.

I am so proud of him because at five years old, he can already read. Hubby said, the teachers must be doing a good job of teaching the kids how to read. But I pointed out, not all the kids in his class can read like him. In fact, during our last Parent-Teacher meeting, the teacher was impressed that EJ can read well already. She said, EJ is an early reader compared to his classmates.

I told hubby, we should give credit where credit is due and that's ourselves. We did start reading to EJ when he was about 6 months old only. I can quite remember the exact time but I know I read to him when he was less than a year old.

The older he gets, the more books I read for him. I remember, I was already sleepy and EJ would say "read more, read more". I had no choice but to read more or ask hubby to read for EJ.

Even now that EJ can read on his own, hubby and I still read books for him especially if he requests us to read it for him.

I do love to read books. I used to read a lot. But the older I get, the less books I read. It's a pity really. But I plan to change that.

So, if you want your kids to love books, I suggest you start early. Habits formed early on are hard to forget. Also, let your kids see you reading your own book/s. It will encourage them to read more.

I am happy that EJ is a reader. Now, if only I could instill in him a love for numbers. LOL!

New Year Plans and Others

2012-01-06T12:03:00.007+07:00

I thought by blogging first thing in the morning of 2012, I'd be blogging non-stop or at least I'd be blogging everyday.

Unfortunately, it's not the case here. The first week of January is almost over and I have only blogged once. So this post is about trying to make up or add at least one more post to the first week of January 2012. LOL!

How's the start of your year, so far?

If the last quarter of 2011 was crazy hectic for me, now it's a little bit slow the beginning of the year. I am still busy with the usual stuff - managing the house and some online work.

Hubby told me we should get some help, at least with the cleaning of the house and ironing the clothes. But I think I can still manage. I just have to manage my time well and make sure I don't get too tired, otherwise, it's hello migraine for me.

I am also finalizing our travel plans. There won't be a lot of travels this year as we are trying to save more. Our travels this year will just consist of 2 travels to Philippines and 1 travel to another country. We still haven't decided which new country it will be. But I guess, it's just within Asia.

And also I am trying edit our things. I just realized we have too much gadgets in our house. I am going to sell some like an iPad2 and a couple of my bags. LV Monogram Mini Lin Speedy, anyone?

So yeah, that's what I am busy with lately. I still have to post about our Brussels trip and Dubai trip. I need to be more efficient really with my time management.

Good morning, 2012!

2012-01-01T08:07:00.006+07:00

How was your New Year's Eve celebration?

We slept through the new year's eve! LOL! But we had an early start. We knew that EJ could not last long through the night. And quite frankly, I also couldn't wait that long until the clock strikes 1 minute past 12 midnight of 2012. I am usually in dreamland at 8:30pm!

So we had an early dinner at home. In fact, it was only 5:30pm. But we were all very hungry at that time because we purposely did not have a full lunch. Hubby and I spent the afternoon preparing some dishes. Hubby did fried lumpia and pork barbeque while I made puto cheese and Pinoy style spaghetti.

Our very early NYE dinner at home! After dinner, we just watched movies, ate chocolates and chips and played EJ's new angry bird game.

EJ and I watching movie

Praying for a much stronger love and bond between hubby and I.

Caught in the act! Busy checking social networking sites. LOL!

Angry birds game in real time. LOL! EJ just can't get enough of it in iPad that he's also playing it in real time. But it sure is a fun game for the family!

At around 9pm, we were all sleepy and called it a night. But not before we threw some coins all over the house for goodluck!

I heard fireworks at midnight but I was too tired to wake up. I just slept right back.

Hubby and I woke up at 6am. We had coffee and afterwards I got started with the laundry and with this blogging. I want to be busy all year round.

~~~

I hope you all have a great time welcoming the new year. Here's wishing all my blogging friends a very Happy New Year and a year filled with laughter, magic and love. May God always guide and bless us.

Post Christmas Talk

2011-12-28T14:26:00.008+07:00

Hello guys! How was your Christmas?

Same as last year, we celebrated our Christmas here in Phnom Penh. I wanted to pack my samsonite briefcase and go home but we've used up our travel quota already for 2011. So we are staying put in Phnom Penh for the holidays.

But just because we're not in the Philippines doesn't mean it has to be a sad Christmas, right?

Well, on Christmas Eve, we just stayed at home. We prepared Filipino fares like pancit, pork bbq, fruit salad, and chicken macaroni salad. EJ helped me bake a chocolate muffin for dessert.

Cheers!

After dinner, we had a fun time posing for the camera before EJ opened his presents.

Hubby and I

EJ and Dad

EJ and Mum

Our family picture on Christmas Eve at our tree was grainy. I couldn't fix it.

So on Christmas Day, before we went to Sofitel for brunch, we took a picture again at our tree. Thank goodness, it's clear.

But this one is better. LOL! This was taken at the Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra's lobby.

At La Coupole Buffet Restaurant

Yummy candy treats for the kids and kids at heart

Lobster, crabs, salmon, etc..

Pastries!

After the sumptous brunch, we headed to my friend's Christmas party.

The whole gang!

We feasted on this Filipino kakanin! Yummy!!!

And before the party ended, we had our Christmas exchange gifts! Thank you Ate Elms for hosting the party. And thank you so much for the gift. I love it!

~~

Have a Happy and Blessed New Year, everyone!

From our family to yours

2011-12-24T22:52:00.002+07:00

Merry Christmas!!! May we all have a meaningful time with our family and those dear to us.

Building memories

2011-12-22T05:14:00.001+07:00

It's that time of the year when I love to bake. Last Sunday, EJ and I baked another batch of muffins.

We did blueberry muffins.

I don't know why it did not rise as much. I probably must have put too much milk? But it doesn't really matter how it looks or how it tasted because what's important for me is that EJ and I are building memories.

I remember when I was younger and when we were still living in Tandag, my mother used to bake muffins. I still remember the smell of the muffins coming out of the oven up to now. It's one of those priceless memories I have of my mother.

If EJ will have good memories of me when he is older, I guess that's one of the greatest mother's day gifts ever.

~~~

It's two more days before Christmas. I am not sure if I will be able to blog before then. But if I don't, let me greet you guys a Happy and Meaningful Christmas! Let's spread the cheer and love around us. After all, Christmas is really about sharing and loving.

Beautiful place you can call home in Manila

2011-12-20T05:28:00.006+07:00

Here's another shameless plug.

My brother has a fully funished condominium unit for rent on a daily/weekly/monthly basis at Sea Residences in MOA Complex, Pasay City.

It's a beautiful and cheaper alternative to staying at hotels. And it's in a very good location - walking distance to SM MOA and SMX Convention Center.

Rates are: Php1,700 per day(1-7days);Php1,500 per day(8-15days);Php1,300 per day(16-30days); More than 30 days-negotiable. The rate includes the use of all facilities like swimming pools,gym,huge lobby and water. Electricity is not included in the rate; it is charged on an actual usage(kilowatt-hr) x Php12 per kilowatt-hr.

Here are the pictures:

Lobby of Sea Residences

1 Bedroom unit

Dining Area

Bedroom

Balcony with Makati view

Toilet

For reservations, please email seareservations@gmail.com

P.S. We have a unit of our own at Sea Residences. It's just not furnished but we're pleased to rent it out as it is. For pictures, please visit http://manilacondos4rent.blogspot.com

Thanks guys!

It's the week before Christmas

2011-12-18T13:19:00.005+07:00

Friday was the end of EJ's second term in school. Where did the time go? He's halfway through the school year already. One year and a half more and he'll be in grade 1. Wow!!!

Last Wednesday, they had a Christmas party in school. It was a potluck party and they invited the parents to watch their mini presentation.

They sang a couple of school songs and at the end of the program they sang Christmas carols. The kids were so cute.

After this party, EJ is so hyped up about Christmas already. I bought his gifts last Friday and had it wrapped in store. When I brought it home last Wednesday, he wanted to open it right away. LOL!

But the good thing about EJ is he really listens to us. We just told him that he can only open his presents on Christmas day. And if he wait some more, he might have more presents.

For now, he's ignoring the presents under the Christmas tree. But I, myself is so excited for him. I bought something he'd really love.

Are you finished wrapping your presents? Finished with the preparation?

We'll stay at home on Christmas Eve. Hubby wants to prepare Filipino food. On Christmas Day, we'll go to Sofitel for our Christmas Brunch and head on to my friend's house in the afternoon for a potluck Christmas party with friends in Phnom Penh.

Just like EJ, it seems I am so excited about Christmas also!

Little treats

2011-12-16T06:07:00.000+07:00

I can't stop gushing how much I am loving the weather here right now. It's cold but it's just the right kind of cold.

I haven't turned on the AC nor the electric fan at day time. I just open the window and let the cold December breeze in. I am expecting a drop in our electric bill next month.

This kind of weather though is hazardous to my "diet". Because it makes me crave for something like this...

Corn muffin in the oven

Tada! My corn muffin! It's perfect with a strawberry jam and a hot coffee. A perfect way to ruin one's "diet". But I love it. And besides, I have lost over 20lbs in the last four months already so a little treat here and there is most welcome. LOL!

Another one in the hood

2011-12-15T08:34:00.001+07:00

Phnom Penh may not have the fancy big malls of the big cities but what we do have here is the abundant choices of coffeeshops.

The city maybe small but I think every corner has one coffeeshop at least. We are really spoiled for choice. We do have local and international brands.

One of the international brands that has arrived in Phnom Penh is The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf.

I am not sure when it opened but I am pretty sure it's just recently.

Last Saturday, we stopped by The Coffee Bean. It's in Phnom Penh Tower along Monivong Road.

I ordered a mocha latte, hubby had ice blended white chocolate and EJ ordered orange juice and brownie.

I liked the place because it's not crowded yet like my favorites - Brown (local chain) and Gloria Jeans (international chain).

I just hope they add more pastries. Last Saturday, their display cabinet was also bare.

I can see myself going back there for their ice blended fare.

For Sale: Large Format Printing and Signage Business

2011-12-14T11:04:00.002+07:00

My brother wants to sell one of his businesses, Large Format Printing and Signage Business, because he wants to concentrate on his main business.

Anyway, I am helping him spread the word. He is selling it for Php3.6M (Negotiable). Included in the price:

Mutoh 1604 Made in Japan;5ft print width
Seiko V-64S, Made in Japan;5ft print width
One(1) seaming machine Made in Germany
Two(2) sets of computers
One(1) printing software
CCTV cameras and recorder
Office furnitures(tables/chairs)
Hot and cold water dispenser
Two(2) 2HP Panasonic split type aircon
Existing supplies
Renovation cost
Permits and licenses
Tools and Equipment(welding machine etc)

More details:

~Monthly average net profit from walk-in sales Php50,000+
~Operational, audit systems & procedures to run the business are documented & in place
~Well-trained, courteous and honest personnel.
~Nice location of printing shop with unlimited growth potential.
~With technical support and credit terms from suppliers.
~Just take over the business and start to earn.

Here are some pictures from their office.

If you are interested, you can see the ads here. Or you can message me.

Thank you!

Brussels was cold

2011-12-13T06:19:00.004+07:00

I promised to write about our Brussels trip. But I am running late as it is already. So I will just make a short post, a teaser of sort.

I can carry the Atomium with one hand! Yeah, right! LOL!

Had to rest after all those walks!

As you can see in the pictures, I was already wearing gloves and brogues for my shoes. But I still felt the coldness pierce through my skin and bones. Yes, it was that cold! I should have followed my friend and bought minnetonka moccasins shoes she told me to buy but I was stubborn.

The temperature at that time was 9 degrees I believe. Too cold for me. I even cut short my visit to Mini Europe and stayed in a coffeechop because I couldn't take the cold anymore while EJ and hubby continued to explore the place.

For every mistake you make, you learn a lesson. And I did learn a lesson that trip. I should bring thick coats next time. LOL!

Christmas Village at Le Duo 2011

2011-12-13T05:56:00.004+07:00

Christmas is really upon us. For a non Christian country like Cambodia, it's surprising to see that every establishment has a Christmas decor. But maybe, I really shouldn't be surprised. Christmas has become so commercialized.

Anyway, a week ago there was a Christmas Bazaar at Le Duo. They have also done this last year which my friends and I joined.

This year, I signed up early thinking I would have time to prepare all my jewelries. Unfortunately, I got so busy and never had much time prepare. I was ready to give up on my booth when my friend took over.

She sold some of her items and asked me to sell some of my jewelries I have made already. It was a last minute effort but I am thankful my friend, Ate Elms took over.

She did a good job with the booth presentation. Thanks Ate Elms. You're a saviour!

This was our booth. My friend's items were some Christmas decors and wardrobe hanger (is this the correct name, Ate Elms?) We borrowed a chair for her helper who manned the booth for two days because I did forget to bring my metal step stools. It would have been useful at that time. Oh well.

Of course, I need to have a picture. LOL!

I only had a handful of jewelries on display. Sigh.

It was a successful event but I heard it wasn't as popular as last year. If we are still here next December, I would surely join the bazaar again and make sure I am well prepared.

This year it was a case of "do what you can with what you have". I am sure I can do better than that next time.

Chilly Monday and Monday tales

2011-12-12T16:38:00.006+07:00

What a great weather we're having here in Phnom Penh today! Well, actually it's been like this for over a week now. The temperature reads 27 degrees at the hottest and 23 degrees at the coldest. But it feels like it's 24 degrees all the time. It's cold. I haven't turned on the AC nor the electric fan at all the whole day. And it's still chilly. Wow! I am sooo loving it.

Anyway, EJ is just home bound today. He has dry cough and we decided not to let him go to school today. He looks fine but he keeps on barking este coughing the whole time yesterday. Hopefully he'll feel better tomorrow so he can go to school. It's their Christmas party!

EJ hasn't been sick for a while and I think the reason he is sick now is that he's over fatigued. He's been having play dates left and right last week I joked that his social calendar is busier than mine! LOL!

He had four play dates last week. The last one was in Monkey Business last Friday with Osuke.

EJ and Osuke never fight. I like that about them. They have been friends for almost three years now. So I guess they know each other well already.

This week I am cutting down EJ's social activities. We will go home directly after school and maybe let him entertain his neighbor/friends once this week.

So instead of finishing a lot of tasks today, I took the time also to just let my body rest. It's a great Monday actually. I am grateful.

I plan to finish posting about our recent trip. I still have to write about Brussels and Dubai. I hope I can do that this week.

Hope you're having a great start of the week guys. Let's stay positive and smile all the time!

Was Humpty Dumpty Bad?

2011-12-08T10:50:00.003+07:00

I accepted a Media screening invite and watched Puss in Boots at Legend Cinemas last Monday.

I haven't gone out much lately because I just have so many things to take care of. But last Monday, I decided I want to go out. It's good for my health and sanity that I go out once in a while and be with other people aside from hubby and EJ. LOL!

I did enjoy the movie in 3D. But I have my doubts if EJ will enjoy it as much. I was thinking we'd bring him to the movie house this weekend but I don't think we'd do that anymore. The movie is not exactly his kind of movies.

I can't speak for the rest of the kids though. Maybe they'd enjoy seeing Humpty Dumpty and Jack (of the Jack and Jill fame who's too old alreay, LOL!).

My favorite moment in the movie was when the main characters were in the clouds bouncing. I wish I could do that too. Hahaha!!!

Anyway, if you want to hear Antonio Bandera's voice and be entertained, go to Legend Cinemas at City Mall 3rd floor.

Paris Disneyland - Happy Place

2011-12-06T10:49:00.011+07:00

Disneyland is really a happy place, no? Whether you're a kid or a kid at heart, Disneyland never fails to make you smile. Well, at least in my case.

I have been to two Disneyland already: Hongkong and Paris. We're planning to visit another Disneyland next year. God willing.

Anyway, we spent one day at Paris Disneyland. I had a great time riding the "train" and the "boat".

As for EJ, I am sure it was magical for him. I saw how his eyes glistened when he saw Mickey. He really loved being there. For a parent, you live for moments like this when you can make your child happy.

It was colder in Disneyland than it was in the city. I did not expect it. Suffice it to say, we bought extra layers that day.

Here are our pictures:

Around Paris

2011-12-02T11:40:00.001+07:00

We stayed in Paris for just a total of six days. Five days were spent walking and walking around the city and one whole day was allotted for Paris Disneyland which I will write about later.

I have already written and posted pics about Louvre, Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, Jardin du Luxembourg.

Today I am feeling lazy. So I will just compress the rest of my photos in one post. LOL!

Arc de Triomphe de l'Etoile. You can go to the top but we decided not to.

With my friend, Kaori, our tour guide that day.

At Champs Elysee

At Laduree. Yummy, yummy macarons. EJ fell in love with it. It's a must buy in Paris. A perfect "pasalubong" as well.

Obelisk of Luxor at the background.

At Place de la Concorde. EJ was as usual fascinated with the fountain there.

Coffee time at Jardin des Tuileries!

Rue Saint-Honore. For shopaholics, I guess this street is heaven for them. LOL! For us, it was just for sight-seeing and dreaming. Hahaha!!!

The Place Vendome Column

EJ, playing as always - at Place Vendome.

Opera. We were not able to go closer because EJ was already cranky. He was tired from all the walking and just wanted to rest at the hotel.

In one of the streets. I forgot the name. This was on our last day. We were just walking leisurely and enjoying the sight.

At the Seine River

Louvre at daytime.

Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel

At Basilique du Sacré Coeur

2011-12-01T14:01:00.007+07:00

In our original itinerary, we did not include Basilique du Sacre Coeur because it is a bit far from the city center.

But when we were in Paris already, I don't know what changed our mind, but we suddenly wanted to visit the place.

After looking at their train map for a hundredth time, we decided to see Sacre Coeur.

As the basilica is located at the summit of the butte Montmartre, the highest point in the city, we had to trek up. It wasn't difficult but I was busy catching my breath when we finally arrived there. I guess I did burn a good amount of calories, probably good enough as opiate detox.

But EJ was surprisingly in a good spirit. He did not even complain once or he did not even ask to be carried.

Sacre Coeur

This was a nice view

Overlooking the city

We did not see the Eiffel Tower from here though. On another side, I guess?

The purpose of the tripod is to take a family picture like this =)

EJ took this one

He wanted a solo shot

And of course, fun is always with EJ everywhere he goes!

At the Eiffel Tower

2011-11-29T12:45:00.004+07:00

I know some people may not be that much impressed with the Eiffel Tower but for me, a first timer in Paris, a Paris trip won't be complete without visiting Tour Eiffel! I mean, it's the first thing that comes to my mind when I hear the word "Paris".

Before planning this trip, I did not know that you can go up the tower. Only shows how little I know, right?

So yeah, you can go up to the first floor (accessible by stairs and/or elevator), second floor and third floor (by elevator only). The third floor is at the top most part. Since I have height issues I decided I can only go to the second floor (around the mid part of the tower.

I booked our ticket online to avoid having to queue at their POS systems. The ticket costs 8Euro/adult and 4Euro/kid.

Here are our pictures:

EJ and hubby at the foot of the famous tower. EJ was so excited!

Tour Eiffel

As usual, it was all play for EJ. He did not feel the cold wind at all.

I can hardly smile here. It was cold and windy! I was actually wearing a beanie here (which I purchased at the souvenir shop before going up) but took it out for the pictures because it did not match my outfit. LOL!

My son knows how to pose!

View from the second floor

Another one

And another one

When we went down, it was getting dark already. And they have lit up the tower. It's beautiful, right?

Take one. EJ just couldn't stay put.

Take two. But before the shot was completed, he was already running. Sigh.

My unsolicited advice: Go to the Eiffel tower late in the afternoon. See it up close. Then, stay there until dark so you can see when it's all lit up and blinking. Makes for a pretty and romantic sight =)

What's the plan

2011-11-29T11:10:00.002+07:00

Are you counting down days until Christmas? Or crossing off your gifts for christmas list?

I am not counting down. There is no need for that. My friends at FB are doing it for me. LOL! But seriously, I can feel that Christmas is near. We are still getting abundant sunshine but the wind is a little colder now. Grocery stores are filled with candy canes and chocolates of all sorts. And almost every establishment here have put up a tree or a Christmas decor. Christmas is really just around the corner!

I haven't started yet with my Christmas shopping list. It's a very short one anyway and I think I can do it in just a day's time. I hope. But my Christmas wishlist this year are mostly non material anyway. On top of my list is a wish for me and my family to be in very good health.

I am still undecided about our Christmas Eve. We might just go to a hotel and come home around midnight for EJ to open his gifts. Or I could cook. Let's see. I am waiting for the hotels around here to publish their dinner rates so I could make up my mind.

What's your plan for Christmas?

The Club member

2011-11-28T09:12:00.003+07:00

I got a surprise last week when the restaurant manager of Cafe Monivong at Raffles Le Royal Hotel, Ms. Noemi, handed me an envelope.

They gave me The Club card.

With this card, I am entitled to some discounts at the hotel's restaurants, spa, laundry, room rates, etc. This comes right on time with the holiday coming up as we are thinking of staying in the hotel.

But I am most particularly happy with the 15% discount at the food and beverage. If you haven't noticed yet, we are frequent eaters at Cafe Monivong, the buffet restaurant of the hotel. A 15% discount is already a big discount.

Thank you Raffles! You sure know how to make your customers happy!

At The Louvre

2011-11-27T07:15:00.003+07:00

Hi! It's been busy at the home front lately that's why I haven't been blogging and visiting blogs as much as I want to. I have been able to write some at my travel blog though, so if you want some updates, please visit me there =)

Anyway, I don't want this blog to be left behind so I am sharing some photos we had at the Louvre.

Happy Sunday everyone!!!

Our tree is up

2011-11-22T12:37:00.004+07:00

Thanks to hubby and EJ, our home is now Christmas-y. They put up the tree and the decor last Sunday while I was having a home service massage in our bedroom. LOL!

Okay, okay. Before you think I am that lazy, I did help with the tree. But the rest were up to hubby and the kiddo.

Our tree this year. I did not want to spend money on decors this year. So we only have two choices for christmas tree theme: silver and purple (our theme on 2009) or pure gold (our theme last year). Hubby chose gold, so according to him, we'll have more gold (money) in the coming year. Alright. But I did not want it to be exactly the same as last year so I added a red accent. Just little red balls here and there for some pop of that red color.

Hubby designed the stockings on our rails. I think it turned out pretty well.

This is on our living room table. There's use for that silver and purple balls after all! I know it clashes wih the tree and the stockings, but I don't care. I love it. LOL!

Have you put up your tree? What's your theme?

It's like a movie set

2011-11-21T11:18:00.008+07:00

My brother said that this below picture looks like a part of a movie set.

It's very pretty, isn't it? This was taken at Jardin du Luxembourg in Paris. The pictured building is the Palais de Luxembourg. It's used as the French Senate. This place was very near our hotel. So walking there was just a breeze.

Kaori, my friend and former colleague in Maldives is now based in Paris. She graciously offered her whole day and appointed herself as our tour guide for that day.

With my pretty friend at Jardin du Luxembourg.

It was a chance for us to catch up with our lives. I asked her how she copes with homesickness. She says she's used to it now. She's been working abroad for several years already. And besides, she says, there's always Rebtel, which offers cheap international calls. She said, she can even make free calls to her mom because her mom's using Rebtel too! When I got back here, I researched about more about it and I found out that I just have to download the app in my iPhone and I can start using the service with a wifi or a 3g connection. Cool!

Anyway, back to my story...it seemed like only yesterday when we were still both single (she's still single) and working in Maldives. Oh, what a fun day reminiscing those days! Thank you so much Kaori for being with us on that day. Our first train ride in the Metro seemed less terrifying because you were there to guide us. Thank you and hope to see you again.

While Kaori and I were busy talking, hubby and EJ were busy exploring the place. Here are some more pictures in Jardin du Luxembourg.

I love the uniform trimmed trees.

Jogging in shorts in that cold November. Brrr...I can't do it.

Playtime all the time for EJ.

Some more statues inside.

I love this picture. The lady is surrounded with flowers, just fitting.

What are you thinking, kiddo?

Fall colors.

I need to have a solo picture. LOL!

And of course, our family picture. I have posted this already earlier.

Notre Dame and the Seine River

2011-11-18T11:48:00.009+07:00

We were so fortunate to have stayed in Saint Germaine-Luxembourg area as it is close to a lot of tourist destinations. Our hotel was Holiday Inn Paris Notre Dame. I wrote a little review of our stay in Holiday Inn in my travel blog. Do check it out if you're interested.

Anyway, Notre Dame and Seine River are only two of the places of interest close by to our hotel. So on our first day, jetlagged and tired from our long trip, we still managed to go around.

Notre Dame de Paris or Notre Dame Cathedral.

Our family picture. On reflection, our first day in Paris wasn't that cold yet. Hubby and EJ managed without a coat. But, I, on the other hand felt the cold autumn winds already. As you can see, I am wearing the full gear: coat, boots, and scarf. I think I looked like I was wearing my best maternity clothes. LOL! The coat was a little big on me as I lost some weight prior to our trip.

We were not able to go inside the cathedral as EJ was busy with something else.

He was busy chasing the pigeons.

As we explored the area, we saw this place with lots of leaves on the ground. I think this was at the back of Notre Dame. We couldn't resist taking a family picture.

Autumn in Paris.

I read from reviews that one should eat Berthillon Ice Cream while in Paris. Since we were already in the area, we went to buy a scoop for EJ. It's a little expensive though, about 4 Euro a scoop.

Eating Berthillon Ice Cream along Seine River.

He wanted to be comfortable eating the ice cream so he sat on the stairs. My little tourist! =)

And then it was night time.

Seine River at night. So pretty.

Another shot here. We did not go on a boat cruise as sometimes EJ gets frightened. So we were just content watching the boat pass by.

Notre Dame at night time.

32nd or 64th?

2011-11-16T13:32:00.002+07:00

Yesterday was hubby's 32nd or 64th birthday, depending on how you look at it. You see, he's got two birthdays. How is that possible?

Well, his real birthday is on June. But on his birth certificate, it's registered on November. He only found out about it later in high school.

He's used to celebrating his birthday every June. But changed it to November after he found out. People who knew him from back then like his elementary and highschool friends, greet him every 15th of June. But his friends in college and workmates know that his birthday is every 15th of November.

So..that's how he got two birthdays. LOL!

Ever since we got together, we always celebrate his birthday every November but I can't help it if I also prepare something and greet him on his real birthday. Hahaha!

This was us last night at Raffles Hotel Le Royal. Yup, we're back in Cambodia! I have stories and photos to share here but they'll have to wait because I need to attend to the unpacking and the laundry and the other errands that await me first.

I have posted photos in my facebook however because my brother keeps on asking me to post them. LOL!

Anyway, first things first. I will surely share my stories about Paris, Brussels and Dubai.

In the meantime, let me say we had a great time. It was tiring and a little expensive but it was worth it.

Bonjour Paris!

2011-11-07T12:36:00.003+07:00

Hi! Just want to give update to my family who's waiting for stories and photos from us.

We're still in Paris. And it's very cold. Probably not cold enough to Parisians but it's really really cold for me. Hubby and EJ seemed fine but I can hardly smile.

Yesterday, we were in Eiffel Tower. It was very windy! The cold wind felt like it went inside my skull. I had to buy a bonnet to cover my head. The bonnet did not match my outfit but who cares about fashion when you're dying (feels like!) from cold. Brrrr...

The day before yesterday though, the weather was pleasant. It was cold but tolerable for me. We went around Jardin de Luxembourg where the Palais du Luxembourg is found.

Here's our family picture.

EJ was not looking at the camera. He's always like that lately. So hard to take a picture of him.

EJ played with his RZR XP Accessories toy and his cars on some puddles. I am amazed that he seemed not to feel the coldness of the weather.

Today we will be going to Disneyland Paris. My friend advised me that I should add more layer to my clothing because it's probably going to be colder there.

Hmm..I guess that's a valid reason to hit the shopping street. LOL!

That's all for now. Will update again when jetlag strikes =)

Two more months

2011-11-01T19:54:00.003+07:00

Hello November!

I can't believe we're almost at the year end. It feels like I just finished making my 2011 resolution. Seriously.

It really has been a very fast year for me. I still have a lot of things I want to do before the year ends, like be a part of Application Development Jobs. Kidding!

While it has been a very fast year, I wouldn't say it has been bad. In fact, it's the opposite. There has been plenty of opportunities and blessings. And I am humbled and truly grateful.

I know this month is going to just whizz by but I know I am going to have an amazing time with my family.

On Thursday, we will be flying to Paris for a short holiday and then Brussels and finally to Dubai before heading back here in Phnom Penh.

I am excited, not just for me but for EJ, especially. I know he'll have a magical time at Disney Paris and I know he's excited to climb Eiffel Tower.

I will probably be offline for two weeks unless I can find a free wifi or a cheap internet connection during our travel time. LOL!

Until then, happy November everyone!

Hubby takes over

2011-10-25T13:24:00.004+07:00

I don't know if hubby is bored with the dishes I prepared lately or he's not finding it appetizing anymore. But whatever his reasons for taking over in the kitchen last Sunday, I couldn't complain.

First, I get to rest from cooking. Second, he prepared a very yummy Sunday lunch: homemade imbutido (which he prepared the night before), tomato soup and rice.

Hubby's Imbutido.

EJ loved it and so did I that we have requested him to make another imbutido. He agreed and said he'll add hard boiled egg next time. Yum! We cannot wait.

Thank Hon for the delicious lunch last Sunday. Maybe you'd like to do the cooking every Sunday from now on? LOL!

Change of mind

2011-10-23T14:25:00.004+07:00

EJ realized he doesn't want to get married after all.

Two weeks ago, he told me that his girl classmate X wants to marry him.

And he seemed really excited about that idea. When I asked him, when are you getting married? He said, tomorrow?

Well, now he is singing a different tune. He said he doesn't wanna get married. I asked why.

"Because I don't want to drink coffee ever!"

And I thought it was my marriage talk that changed his mind.

LOL!

UAE Transit Visa for Filipinos

2011-10-21T11:07:00.003+07:00

*This post first appeared on My Travel Folio, my travel blog*

We chose Emirates Airlines for flying to Paris because we are dropping by Dubai and Emirates Airlines is the only airline which helps facilitate UAE transit and tourist visa application online. Of course, it goes without saying that the online visa application service is only available to passengers with confirmed and paid Emirates booking.

It’s going to be our first time to fly Emirates but if I have to judge based on their online services, I have to say, I am pretty much impressed already.

Anyway, after I paid our tickets online and got our booking reference, I just logged in and clicked “manage a booking” tool. From there, it was easy as 1-2-3.

Requirements:
1) Applicants’ passports must have at least six months’ validity as of their date of travel to Dubai.
2) Scanned copy of passport (front and back)
3) Scanned copy of Passport colour ID picture
4) Scanned copy of proof of residence

In addition, we submitted a scanned copy of our Schengen visa and my husband’s recent payslip. They also need the name of the hotel (address and telephone number of the hotel too) you’re staying at in Dubai.

Fees for Transit Visa (96 hours)
Visa fee – $44
Service Fee – $17.50
For some Nationalities including Filipinos, they require a deposit of $272.50. It is a refundable security deposit plus taxes, which is refunded after the visa holder leaves Dubai.

The website says processing of visa usually takes about 4 working days. Sometimes it takes longer than four working days especially during peak seasons and if they need more documents from the applicants.

We logged in our application Friday night. And by Monday morning, we have received a copy of our UAE Transit Visa already. It was so fast and easy that I wish all visas in the world can be applied this way and this fast too.

When migraine visits

2011-10-18T10:37:00.002+07:00

I had the most terrible migraine again yesterday. I hate when I have migraine especially when it starts in the morning because it makes me invalid the whole day.

I slept at 7pm last night and just as I expected I was wide awake at 3am. Well, at least I don't have migraine anymore today.

I blame our current weather for this. It's so bright and hot in the morning and then it rains hard in the afternoon.

Usually a sudden change of weather triggers my migraine. I also have migraine when I don't have enough sleep, hungry, stressed and when it is too bright. I never leave the house without my shades on. That's one accessory I have in my bag all the time.

Over the counter meds aren't effective anymore. The trusted cure is to sleep it off for at least 7 hours. So when it happens in the morning, it means I have the migraine all day long because I couldn't sleep for 7 hours straight during day time.

It's really annoying.

But I think I have to learn how to avoid or lessen migraine attacks. I already know the causes and I should pay more attention to it. I am just so stubborn. LOL! But I promise to pay more attention now.

~~~

On my way to EJ's school yesterday, I saw a motorcycle accident again. Tsk. Tsk. The girl on the bike collided or was hit by a big car. I am guessing it wasn't a hard hit because the girl looked fine but disoriented. Someone helped her get up. The girl was wearing a helmet, thank God. I hope that all bike riders here will learn to use helmet. And probably use a Scala Rider G4 instead of driving with one hand and talking on the phone on the other hand. It's soo dangerous but some people don't realize this. Sigh.

~~~

I am getting more and more excited with our upcoming travel. It's just two more weeks. But I am not done booking some tours. I am more concerned about what to wear. Typical. Hahaha!!!

~~~

Enjoy your day, everyone.

Life is not a coincidence

2011-10-16T06:03:00.002+07:00

I received this in my email. Just thought I'd share this in my blog. It's a nice read.

~~~

Mountain Story - An interesting short story

A son and his father were walking on the mountains.
Suddenly, his son falls, hurts himself and screams: "AAAhhhhhhhhhhh!!!"
To his surprise, he hears the voice repeating, somewhere in the mountain: "AAAhhhhhhhhhhh!!!"
Curious, he yells: "Who are you?"
He receives the answer: "Who are you?"
And then he screams to the mountain: "I admire you!"
The voice answers: "I admire you!"
Angered at the response, he screams: "Coward!"
He receives the answer: "Coward!"
He looks to his father and asks: "What's going on?"
The father smiles and says: "My son, pay attention."
Again the man screams: "You are a champion!"
The voice answers: "You are a champion!"
The boy is surprised, but does not understand.
Then the father explains: "People call this ECHO, but really this is LIFE.
It gives you back everything you say or do.

Our life is simply a reflection of our actions.
If you want more love in the world, create more love in your heart.
If you want more competence in your team, improve your competence.
This relationship applies to everything, in all aspects of life;
Life will give you back everything you have given to it."

YOUR LIFE IS NOT A COINCIDENCE. IT'S A REFLECTION OF YOU!"
-- Unknown Author

~~~

Happy Sunday everyone!

Bento!

2011-10-13T10:32:00.004+07:00

Hello Thursday! I am craving for Japanese food today!

I had this Bento box at Susume about 3 weeks ago. It was good.

Right now though, I am craving for some salmon and tuna sashimi. Yum! But hubby is not free for lunch. He has a business lunch. Hmm...maybe I should just have a take away?

By the way, did you read about Japan's plan of sponsoring 10,000 tickets to Japan? I read about it yesterday. I am interested to join. Hahahaha! I love anything Japanese.

~~~

It's almost mid-month of October! Wow! Before we know it, it's going to be Christmas time again. Have you thought or made plans about Christmas yet?

I wish we could go home. But it looks like we're going nowhere for Christmas. That's okay though.

~~~

Speaking of Christmas, I should have a spring cleaning of our closets, particularly EJ's. He's got several clothes that are small for him already. And he has a lot of toys that he's not using anymore. I am planning to give them away this Christmas. We also have ps3 bundles that we're not using anymore. Maybe it's better if someone else find joy in them.

~~~

EJ's class will have a term-ender party tomorrow. Wow! It sure was fast. I am excited to see what the class has prepared for the parents. EJ said they'll be singing some songs.

~~~

Regarding our upcoming trip, I am happy we have already booked our hotels. We will be staying at Holiday Inn Notre Dame in Paris and Novotel in Dubai. There's still more to do. But it's just finalizing minor details and it's not really that urgent. I am not stressed out anymore. LOL!

~~~

Happy Thursday guys! Let the sunshine in through our hearts =)

She wants to marry me

2011-10-12T11:32:00.004+07:00

One afternoon, EJ stopped drawing and said, "You know what mommy, girl x (his classmate) is gonna marry me."

I almost dropped the iron on the floor. LOL! I was absolutely stunned but I did not show it, instead I asked him calmly "Really? She said that?"

"Yes, she said that. She said she's going to marry me....for real!" came the reply.

Before I could say another word, EJ showed me his drawing.

"Look mommy, girl x and I are getting married!"

I smiled and said okay.

I know EJ's imagination is sometimes over the top but where did he get the idea about marriage and stuff?

I did not tease him about his classmate and him getting married. I told hubby not to tease him either. I don't want EJ to be embarrassed or anything. I want him to continue telling me everything.

But I did tell him that he is too young to get married. There's still so much things to learn and explore before he should think about marriage. And besides, I asked him "who will wash/wipe/clean your bum after using the toilet?"

That elicited a laugh from him.

I guess he realized on his own that he's really not yet ready for marriage. LOL!

Looking for Hotels

2011-10-10T10:31:00.004+07:00

Good morning, Monday!

It has been a crazy busy weekend for us. I am not complaining, just sayin'. Hubby and I slept late last Friday or I should say we slept early morning of Saturday. We were busy submitting online our UAE transit visa application through Emirates Airlines.

I will let you know about our application process later but for now, I am just happy to report that this morning we received an email saying our visa has been approved. They say the processing takes four days but it has only been two and a half days and we got our visa already. So fast!

Get ready Dubai. We're coming soon! =)

And on Saturday night, hubby and I slept late again (early morning of Sunday already) because we were looking for the "best" hotel we could stay in Paris. It was fun looking at each and every hotel we found. Plus we have the best soundbar at home so we were listening and grooving to some music while doing the research.

It's Monday already and still, we haven't found a hotel yet. The whole day of yesterday, we were glued to our iPads comparing hotels. Arrrggg...I am tired now and sleepless with huge eyebags on my eyes.

Hubby said, we will decide this afternoon and book the hotel. I hope we could agree on the hotel already. I want to move on to the next step and finalize our itinerary.

By the way, if you've been to Paris which area is the best place to stay? Or the best hotel to stay that's not too expensive?

So that's how we spent our weekend. How was your weekend guys?

New happiness

2011-10-10T07:48:00.005+07:00

There is so much to be happy about. I am not the kind of person to mope and dwell on problems and negativity. I think and I feel it's just a waste of time. Why be sad when there is just so much to be happy about?

As I continue to adjust to more housework, believe it or not, I find more things that make me happy. Yes, I won't deny that I am tired most of the time. But surprisingly, it's not that hard. My friend and hubby tell me to get laundry and ironing service but I think I can still manage for now.

I told hubby that there is a new definition to my happiness now. But it's not really a new definition. I am still happy shopping and travelling. LOL! It's more like an addition to my definition of happiness.

Things that make me happy lately:
1) Fresh bed linens. I just love it! If it's only possible, I want to change our bed linens everyday. LOL!
2) Empty laundry basket. Enough said.
3) Empty ironing basket. To borrow my son's word, "for real!"
4) No pet stains on carpet.
5) Freshly mopped floor.
6) EJ coming home without a stain on his shirt and shorts.

All related to housework, I know. I guess, my happiness level is shallow. That's a good thing I hope.

What has made you smile lately? Happy Monday everyone. Let's all find something to be happy about.

Free Play

2011-10-04T10:22:00.003+07:00

It's not a trip to the big city if EJ does not visit a toy store. We always try to accommodate him. So it's always a part of our itinerary.

For our recent Bangkok trip, EJ visited three different big toy stores. It doesn't necessarily mean that he would ask us to buy him toys. He just like to roam around and play with the toy display.

EJ's current fascination is with lego so we're often stuck in these free play legos in toy stores.

We usually stay in a toy store for over an hour. And believe me, EJ is already content just to play with the toys inside. He doesn't ask for anything. So we come out of the store empty handed unless the Daddy feels obligated to buy a toy for his son. One time, I had to stop him from buying a thule bike racks. We didn't need it and EJ did not ask for it. Tsk.

His other favorite toys are the characters from the movie Cars, particularly Lighting McQueen.

I guess toy stores are like heaven to kids in as much as chocolate is like heaven to me. LOL!

Billion Beef

2011-10-03T10:40:00.002+07:00

Hubby swears he had the best beef red curry at Billion Beef, Emporium Mall Bangkok. Yes, it was good even great but to say it was the best, I am not that sure. Hehehe.

Billion Beef is a resto inside Emporium Mall's food hall. They serve premium beef and Thai dishes.

We ordered Beed Red Curry, Phad Thai, Veggie Spring Rolls and Beef Fried Rice.

And the diners....

Hey baby, why so serious? Are you that hungry? LOL!

Dining in a foreign country is a hit or miss. I am glad this one is a hit.

Bangkok break is over

2011-09-30T11:16:00.005+07:00

Hi! We're back in Phnom Penh last Wednesday night. We were supposed to stay in Bangkok until Monday night only but Hubby felt it was "bitin" so we extended our stay until Wednesday.

Happy to say we accomplished what we went there for - buy some coats for our November trip, plus we get to rest and relax some more.

I have never shopped for any winter clothes before. There was never a need. So I was shocked to find out the prices for winter clothing are expensive! I am never going to live in a cold country ever! LOL!

We stayed in two different hotels. The first one in Emporium Suites. After we extended our stay, I booked our accommodation in Centara Grand at Central World Hotel.

Below photos are taken at Centara Grand.

I will write a short review of the Emporium Suites in my travel blog. As for Centara Grand, it's still our favorite hotel.

~~~

Happy Friday everyone!

Johnny English Reborn

2011-09-23T11:12:00.004+07:00

I was surprised to find out that Johnny English Reborn is being shown in Cambodia just a week after its International release date. In US, and some other countries Johnny English Reborn release date is still next month.

My friends commented, Johnny English aka Mr. Bean aka Mr. Rowan Atkinson may have a huge following here in Cambodia hence the early screening. Hehe.

Well, as far as I am concerned I am happy that it's showing now. Gotta thank Legend Cinema for bringing it here early.

So last Wednesday, I ditched my housework and motorhome repair so I can watch the movie.

I am so glad I made time to watch this. This movie has funny written all over it, from start to finish.

Johnny English Reborn is a sequel to Johnny English, which I haven't been able to watch. Hubby told me it was very entertaining too. I think I will have to scour the DVD store for a copy.

~~~

We're flying to Bangkok tomorrow. It's a long weekend (until Wednesday) so we're taking advantage of it.

Yay, I can't wait to eat authentic Thai food again!

Happy weekend everyone. Enjoy!

Credit Cards and limits in Cambodia

2011-09-22T11:50:00.004+07:00

I have realized that it's not wise to use my Philippines credit cards abroad because the transaction is in dollars (bank conversion rate is of course higher than the current exchange rate) and I have to pay in peso. Lugi.

We have a credit card here in Cambodia issued by ANZ Bank. The credit limit is actually more than enough. But since we are going to travel to Europe soon and I will be booking our hotel accommodation, I think we might need a higher credit limit.

So yesterday we went to ANZ Bank in Sihanouk Boulevard. We requested for an increase in our credit limit. It took less than 30 minutes and we were told the increase in credit limit will take effect the following day, which is today. Great!

So how to increase an ANZ credit card limit in Cambodia? Simple actually.

Just deposit a corresponding amount for the credit limit you want plus 10% of that amount. Let's say you want a $1000 increase in your credit limit, just deposit $1000 + $100(10%) = $1100.

I am not exactly sure what the 10% is for. But rest assured that the money (including the 10% you deposited) will earn interest thru a Time Deposit account.

Oh by the way, expats here in Cambodia can only get a credit card (at least in ANZ Bank) if you make a time deposit. If you want a credit limit of $1000, you need to make a time deposit of $1000 plus the 10% which is $100. The whole amount will earn interest as a time deposit account.

I guess it's a form of security for the bank. After all, expats come and go.

Lunch date at La Croisette

2011-09-20T11:16:00.002+07:00

Last Wednesday, lunch date with hubby continues. I was meeting a potential client along Sisowath (Riverside) in the afternoon so we chose a place already in Sisowath.

Hubby has eaten at La Croisette before so he suggested the place. La Croisette serves European and Khmer dishes. Perfect, as I was craving for something a little spicy.

Complimentary bread basket

We had shrimp cocktail as appetizers

Shrimp in green pepper. It was spicy, just the way I love it.

Hubby's order

Hey Hon, happy with your food?

The service at La Croisette was fast and the food was good. The ambience is relaxed. I think it's a great place for sundowners and happy hours.

La Croisette
241 Sisowath Quay
Phnom Penh

Another domestic talk

2011-09-16T11:35:00.004+07:00

If there's one chore I hate the most, it has to be ironing. Yup, I am sure a lot of people hate it too.

I don't know, it's just too tedious.

But lately, I have no choice. As much as I don't want to do it, I also can't bear seeing my son or my husband in wrinkled clothes.

I have scheduled ironing twice a week (sometimes, I do it three times a week). I usually do it every Tuesday and Thursday in the morning, around 5am. Yup! I am already busy by 5am. Sometimes, I even wake up earlier than that. I guess, it's my new body clock now.

Anyway, it's so surprising that instead of being irritated by this chore, I have come to sort of like it.

I know. Funny, right? But there's something about ironing that's just soothing. It clears my head. And I think straight. Sometimes the picture in my head are even clearer than that of your olympus digital cameras. Promise! Hehehe!

My friend suggested I hire someone to do the ironing. I did consider it. But now, I think I will just do it myself. It's a form of exercise. I save on the fee. And more importantly, it's a good way to connect with my thoughts.

~~~

Happy Friday everyone. Have a fantastic weekend!

All about me by EJ

2011-09-14T12:05:00.003+07:00

Every Friday, EJ brings home a folder full of his worksheets from school. He has accumulated quite a lot already which made me think I should get a document management software already. LOL!

Anyways, we always go through each work sheet with him. We love doing it because he gets so animated explaining his work.

Last Friday he brought this "All About Me" album together with some more worksheets.

As usual we went through it with him.

His self-portrait. A smiling boy. Good! And then the next page cracked me up.

What do you see? Daddy is a bit thick, don't you think? LOL! Thank goodness, he drew me as a stick. Hahahaha!!!

I can't stop laughing when I saw this one. It really made my day. I love my son.

Swimming fun at Sofitel

2011-09-12T11:51:00.003+07:00

EJ still did not join his swimming class last Friday. I was hoping he would because he did enjoy swimming the previous Saturday at Himawari Hotel.

On the day of their swimming class, EJ asked his Dad to tell the teacher that he's not joining the swimming class. That's how he dislikes swimming.

So last Saturday, we went swimming again. We're trying to make swimming fun for EJ so he won't be scared in school.

This time we tried the pool at Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra.

Since we were early, we thought of having breakfast by the pool.

Hubby and I had cafe latte and chocolate milkshake for EJ.

I ordered a bread basket which I shared with my boys. Hubby ordered clubhouse sandwich which he shared with all of us.

Sofitel's pool is quite big. And it's not crowded.

A day pass is $15/adult and $11/kid. It's double the rate of Himawari Hotel but Sofitel's amenities more than compensated for the price. For the price of $15, you can use the gym, squash court, use the kid's club (for kids), attend a yoga or pilates class, use the dry/steam sauna and use the shower.

EJ loved it there. He said he wants to go back there on Saturday.

We stayed until 12nn. We were the first one to arrive and we were the last one to leave as well. Sinulit hahaha!!!

For lunch, we went inside the hotel and ate at La Coupole, Sofitel's buffet restaurant.

EJ feasted on the sweets and I feasted on their sushi and dimsum. LOL!

We did have an awesome time. We'll be back next weekend.

Hachi: Sofitel's Japanese Resto

2011-09-11T09:55:00.005+07:00

Last Friday, I had lunch with hubby at Hachi, Sofitel's Japanese restaurant. I had been craving for Japanese food the whole week. So I suggested to hubby we try Hachi.

We used to have Friday dinner dates but it's not possible anymore because no one stays with EJ at home and even if we bring him along, he's cranky because 8pm is his sleeping time.

I think it's important for couples to still go out on "dates". But because night times are not possible for us anymore, it doesn't mean we should forego our dates. We can still go on lunch dates! LOL!

Hachi has nice ambience and very attentive staff. We got seated right away. We ordered the following:

Thick egg sushi

Salmon sushi

California rolls

Salmon belly

Chicken BBQ

and Assorted Tempura

I loved everything! The chicken bbq was a surprise. The skin was crunchy and the meat was tender. I wonder how they did it?

I would love to come back here but for a lunch bill of $67, I think I have to wait another two months before coming back. LOL!

Laundry talk

2011-09-08T10:13:00.006+07:00

I just spent an hour manually washing EJ's two shirts again. It was both heavily soiled when I put in the washing machine. But I thought, the stains will come off.

When I was about to hang the clothes to dry, I noticed the stains. Uh-oh.

I wasn't worried though because I have a "helper" when it comes to stains on colored shirts.

Meet AXO color safe bleach. I only found out about this product last week. And I have to say, it's definitely worth having in your household.

I remember not too long ago, when having a stain on your colored shirts means saying goodbye to that shirt forever.

Well, that's not the case anymore.

EJ's been coming home lately with heavily soiled clothes. And I have to thank AXO for helping me keep EJ's colored clothes clean, and stain free.

I wouldn't have spent a long time today washing EJ's clothes again if I soaked or pre-treated his shirts right away with the color safe bleach. Instead of spending an hour to wash the clothes today, I would have been busy checking giavonna custom wheels online.

"If you can do it today, why do it tomorrow?" certainly applies to this situation.

Oh well, I am just human.

So mommies like me, if you still have not heard about color safe bleaches, which I just learned about last week (so jurassic! LOL!), go and check your supermarkets now. It works wonders on your laundry and stained clothes.

I am so thankful I live in the modern time with all these new amazing products to help make our lives easier.

Why can't I?

2011-09-07T10:39:00.004+07:00

A friend called me yesterday. She said she's in town and wanted to know if I could meet her for coffee.

I said, I would love to. But I can't.

Why not? She asked. Are you going to take a nap after lunch?

No...I hesitated...then I said, I can't because today's my schedule of ironing our clothes.

We both laughed. LOL!

I have mentioned in my previous post that we don't have any helper anymore. So I do all the work now. But it's okay. As I have said, I am a fast worker.

Everything is just a matter of proper time management. I might not have been able to meet my friend yesterday but I am meeting her later for coffee.

To be honest, I like it this way. No helper that it is. I get to exercise the whole day without forcing myself to. I can see myself losing weight easily. LOL!

I have the whole house all to myself. So I can blast my music as loud as I can (of course I am still mindful of the neighbors) and I can eat lunch anytime I want.

It's all good. The house actually looks and feels much cleaner and shinier. LOL!

With my busy domestic responsibilities now, it's surprising that I still have time for my online gigs and my jewelry business.

Just like I said, everything's just a matter of time management.

Now excuse me while I prepare my tuna sandwich lunch =)

The Saturday that was

2011-09-05T11:01:00.005+07:00

EJ has a swimming class in school. And we got a report that EJ has flatly refused to go swimming last Friday, that he was scared to go swimming.

We're baffled because when he was younger, he loved going to the pool. We don't know what happened that he seems terrified of the pool now.

So, early Saturday morning we headed to Himawari Hotel. We had breakfast first before heading to their pool. FYI, Himawari's pool fee for adult is $8. And $4 for kids.

At first EJ did not want to go swimming. He said he will just watch hubby and I. After a lot of encouragement, he did change into his swimming clothes. But still he would only stay at the side.

It took him an hour or more before he really enjoyed the pool. Hubby and I were already done with the pool but he was still busy playing. You wouldn't think he was scared of the pool during that time.

When it was time for lunch and I was dressing him up, he told me he wants to go swimming again after lunch. Hmmm...where was the terrified baby earlier?

I told him it was not possible because we were watching Cars 2 after lunch. So instead I promised him, we will go back on Saturday.

I hope this Friday, he will join their swimming class.

~~~

It was a first Saturday after a long while, that we spent the whole day outside. We are usually home by 3pm. But last Saturday was a busy day. We watched Cars 2 at Legend Cinema.

Did the groceries at Lucky Citimall. Dropped by a furniture shop to check on something. Then playtime for EJ at Monkey Business. Before we knew it, it was dinner time. Since there was no time to cook, we just went to Bistro Lorenzo for some Filipino food. We arrived home past 7pm. It was a full day, tiring but fun.

I think we'll have another of that this coming Saturday.

~~~

Happy Monday, everyone!

À bientôt, Paris!

2011-09-02T11:00:00.003+07:00

This is what I was talking about last Monday - we got our Schengen Visa already. Weeeee..I am super excited.

Hello Paris on November!

We're planning to go to London also. But the visa processing takes 15 working days because the British Embassy here, still sends the visa application to Bangkok. Unfortunately we cannot take the risk as we have a booked trip on the third week of this month. Baka hindi umabot. Sayang lang.

I want to apply the UK Visa after our trip this month but hubby said we'll just cancel it. Hmmm...

Well, if we won't be able to visit London, that means we can stay in Dubai a little longer after the Paris trip. I've been wanting to visit Dubai too so this is an opportunity and a chance to catch up with my high school classmates who are based there.

This is going to be our first long trip. Let's see how we'll do.

See you soon Disneyland! See you soon Eiffel Tower! See you soon Louvre Museum!

Textmates

2011-09-01T08:57:00.003+07:00

EJ was busy playing on the iPad in the bedroom when I left him to go down and prepare our dinner.

After 15 minutes in the kitchen, I shouted "Are you okay, baby?" I did not get a reply.

So I went up to check..

I saw him typing on my phone. I asked, "what are you doing with my phone?" He did not answer but just shrugged his shoulders and gave the phone to me.

This is what I saw:

He was busy texting my husband. LOL! The messages on the right side are messages sent by him. I was surprised! I know he can read but I did not know he can write those words already.

Hubby was talking to his officemate about shopping for wife's birthday present when he started receiving those messages. He thought he was texting me. He only realized after 2 exchanged messages that the one sending him text messages were EJ. LOL!

Grabe, kids these days really are fast learners aren't they?

Spies, Flying Car and Speed

2011-08-31T09:24:00.008+07:00

Remember my post about Legend Cinema, the first cinema here in Cambodia? Well, I got an invite from them last Monday to watch the Media Screening of Cars 2. I immediately said yes! We've been waiting for this movie to be shown here.

The media screening was yesterday morning. I went there alone. It was going to be my first time to watch a movie alone. Or was it? I couldn't remember anymore. Anyway, I was a bit apprehensive but I was also excited.

We watched Cars 2 in 3D. And I loved it!

The movie is more about Mater and his stint as a spy. There's still racing of course. And the old characters are still there, well except, for Doc Hudson. But no time to be sad, because they have great new characters in place.

Meet the spies: I love both of them!

The "bad" professor:

And Lightning McQueen's new nemesis:

It was 106 minutes of fun! I am going to watch this again on Saturday together with hubby and EJ. I am sure EJ will have a ball, especially with the races.

If you're here in Cambodia, and a movie buff, then you definitely need to check out Legend Cinema. For more info and movie schedule, please visit their website: http://www.legend-cinemas.com. And if you're on Facebook, you may want to hang out at Legend Cinema Fan Page, they always have promos and ticket giveaways.

Change

2011-08-29T09:06:00.005+07:00

Ahhh...Monday. I've been waiting for you to come!

Today, I am looking forward to hearing some good news. We've been waiting for it this past week. So hopefully we'll get it today. Fingers and toes crossed. LOL!

~~

Our kasambahay left yesterday. She's going back to her province in the Philippines because her mother is very sick. I don't think she's coming back here and we're not asking her to come back too.

This is not a bad thing. What it will do is challenge my time management skills. EJ goes to a full day school (well, until 3pm) and that gives me about 7 hours to do everything I need to do. I think that's more than enough. I work fast, anyway.

I think I will only have a problem with ironing. It's a task I loathe.

We can always have our clothes ironed outside but for now, I want to do everything I can. That shouldn't be a problem. I guess. LOL!

Today, I am off to a good start. I hope everyday will be like today.

~~

Next month, there's a 5-day holiday. We'll be in Bangkok. Booked our flight and accommodation already. Thank God for long holidays here in Cambodia.

Mumsified turns a year older

2011-08-25T09:22:00.003+07:00

No, not my blog. It's me who turned a year older last Monday. To be specific, I am now 33 years old =)

My birthday was a quiet affair. I did not have a party. We had that already during EJ's fifth birthday. I chose to have dinner only with the special people in my life.

Dinner at Cafe Monivong at Raffles Hotel Le Royal, our favorite hotel restaurant...

..together with these two handsome men in my life.

Since we had EJ, my birthday has become laidback. No more parties or big celebrations. It's not a conscious choice. It's just that my birthday comes several days after EJ's birthday that I am tired already preparing my own. EJ's birthday always takes the front seat. This is not a complaint. It's just a fact. Besides I like it better this way.

A year older now, I wish I can say a lot wiser too. LOL!

Thank you God for another year in my life. I promise to love and laugh.

Great lunch: Trasak Pa-em Restaurant

2011-08-24T07:54:00.006+07:00

I had a great lunch with hubby yesterday. Plus nice conversation too. Well, I talked and he listened. LOL! I am lucky my husband is my bestfriend too.

So yeah, we had lunch at Trasak Pa-em restaurant yesterday. I have been here several times with some girl friends. We keep on coming back here because of their fried fish in garlic and seafood amok. In my humble opinion, they have the best seafood amok in whole of Phnom Penh.

It was hubby's first time yesterday. He was reluctant. But I was adamant. LOL! So he agreed.

Trasak Pa-em is located in Street 63. It's very easy to find. Once you see a building with big pictures of food outside, that's it. That's always been my way to find it. Hahaha!!!

We had seafood tom yum. Sorry, no more soup in this picture. I already put it in my bowl.

Fried crab in green peppercorn. It was my first time to order this. Wow, soo good! A little bit pricey, $12 for this serving. But it's worth it!

My favorite amok - seafood coconut amok. I have tasted several amok in several restaurants but nothing comes close to this amok. I can eat this every meal every single day. If ever the restaurant have Dishwasher Jobs available and the only compensation is the amok, I would gladly take it. Yup, that's how good it is. Really!

I refrained from ordering the famous fried fish in garlic because it's big. And the food that we ordered were already more than enough for me and hubby.

I should have brought my cousins here. I am sure they would have loved it.

~~~

It's midweek already! I can't wait for next week. I am waiting for some good news. Meanwhile, happy midweek to us all. Be safe and be happy!

Dream Park Cambodia

2011-08-22T08:31:00.003+07:00

Two Saturdays ago, we were in Nagaworld hotel saying our goodbyes to my cousins and friend who were here visiting the Indochina countries.

When they left, EJ asked us to go to the nearby Dream Park because he wanted to check out the maze. He first saw it up from my cousins' room in Nagaworld.

So we did.

Inside the maze. He calls it the bush maze. It was actually quite small and easy to navigate. Good for a little fun with the kids.

Dream Park Cambodia is the newest amusement park in the city. They have ferris wheel, and some other rides which I don't know the names, slides for kids, 4D shows, roller-skating, racing cars, roller coaster, plastic dinosaurs that moves, butterfly garden (which is yet to open), etc.

The entrance ticket is 2000Riels or $0.50/person. You can use the ticket to pay for the attractions or rides inside. In our case, we used the ticket to enter the maze. Other rides cost more than 2000Riels so you have to pay extra.

We just stayed for a short while because it was so hot at 3pm. EJ wanted to stay longer because he loved running around and riding the free swings. So we just promised him we will go back again. Probably next weekend.

My little bookworm

2011-08-18T08:35:00.001+07:00

At Monument Books...

Sometimes, I don't like going to the bookstore with him because he stays too long. Hehehe. And he'd rather read than eat, which is the opposite in my case. LOL!

EJ's party at home

2011-08-17T09:24:00.002+07:00

We had EJ's birthday party last Thursday at home. It was a day after his birthday. We purposely moved it 1 day later so my cousins (EJ's ninong and ninang) who were on Indochina tour could attend the party (they were arriving that day in Phnom Penh!)

Prior to the party, hubby and I already agreed that we'd have Bistro Lorenzo, a Filipino restaurant, cater for us. I was already busy preparing some other things and I did not want to be too stressed on the party itself. I have to say, it was a good choice, the catering, I mean.

Lightning McQueen cake

I ordered this from Bloom Cafe together with the cupcakes (below) and the cupcakes I brought to EJ's school.

The checkered cupcakes.

Bowl of M&M.

Fuel! EJ helped me with the cutouts like this one.

My Piñata. I used Japanese paper so it's easy to break.

Marshmallows and Strawberry with chocolate fondue

The Banner. I think they were a bit small. I should have made them bigger.. And now for the food courtesy of Bistro Lorenzo:

Pancit. This was yummy!

Star of the night - Beef Kaldereta

Fried Chicken

Corn and Carrots

Pork BBQ. I love the BBQ sauce, a bit sweet.

Pizza and Fries (not in the pic) for our non Filipino guests. We also had Crispy Pata. But I forgot to take a picture of it.

EJ's first guest - Tara.

The Jetsetters! My cousin Peter, friend Chat and cousin Janeth. Peter is based in Abu Dhabi, Chat from Dubai and Janeth from Maldives!

Our dear guests. Thank you all for coming! And thank you for the wonderful gifts you gave EJ.

Don't forget to make a wish baby!

The kids in commotion after EJ broke the piñata!

EJ's day in school

2011-08-16T08:28:00.006+07:00

EJ's birthday fell on a weekday. And since they have full day class, we couldn't have a party after school because for sure, they'd be too tired.

So for his birthday, I just brought some cupcakes to share with his classmates and friends. I also brought a small cake where I put the five candles for him to blow.

Since he wanted a Lightning McQueen theme for his birthday, I ordered 25 pieces of this Lighting McQueen cupcakes from Bloom Cafe.

For $2.25 each, I think the cupcakes were so small. One kid even voiced her disappointment at the size. LOL! Nevertheless the kids seemed to enjoy eating it.

I gave the cupcakes to them during their afternoon tea.

EJ with his "Elephant" class.

The other half of his classmates.

His classmates drew birthday cards for him that day. And the teachers compiled it into a book.

Here are some of the "cards" inside the birthday book:

From Cindy

From Ema

From Hun Seo

EJ was exceptionally happy that day. So happy to see him happy!

Indochine at NagaWorld

2011-08-15T08:21:00.008+07:00

EJ had a blast on his birthday! He had two celebrations, one in school on his birthday and the other one at home the following night. But before I go into details about his party, let me post this one first.

A week ago, we had dinner at NagaWorld's newest addition to their line of restaurants - Indochine. Indochine cuisine is a mixture from the Indochina countries like Thailand, Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia.

Indochine Restaurant

Nice umbrellas

Art details

Hubby checking the menu. We decided to order the following:

Fresh coconut, my favorite drink!

Happy with my drink

Prawn spring rolls. It was good!

Fish amok. It was okay. I have tasted better amok in other restos though.

Phad Thai. Yummy!

Pork in aromatic herbs. According to hubby, this was a winner.

We haven't been to NagaWorld Hotel for a while. And when we went there, we were surprised because they have renovated and moved all their restaurants in one place. It looks great and I can't wait to eat the other restaurants again.

As for Indochine, we had a pleasant experience. I'd still want to go back there, but I will try another food.

Happy 5th birthday my Baby!

2011-08-09T08:44:00.003+07:00

EJ is turning 5 tomorrow. I don't want to sound cliche and say that I can't believe he's turning five when it feels like only yesterday when I had him. But guess what, I am going to say that anyway =)

Wow, big 5! I feel like it's a turning point for him. He's not a baby anymore. Of course, he is still my baby and forever will be. He acts like a one year old sometimes, but the rest of the time, he behaves like a grown up kid.

At five (4yo and 10mos. to be precise) he started to read on his own. His vocabulary is impressive and his logic is sharp. He has good manners, never failing to say thank and please. He is generous with his toys and his food.

He's just starting to eat on his own. It's actually my fault because I still feed him up to last month. But I am proud to say that he's realized he has to eat on his own because he says he is a big boy now. He can take off his clothes and can put on his clothes on his own. I know it's a bit delayed but I am still proud of him nevertheless. Seeing him do things on his own makes my heart swell. He is growing up fast and becoming an independent young man!

EJ, my baby, Happy birthday! I love you so much. Daddy and I had a scare last year when we had that devastating news. We thought we were going to lose you. But God is good all the time. I am thankful that everything is okay now and that we're going to see you grow up into a fine young man. My wish is that you achieve whatever you wish to achieve in life. I will always be here for you. Daddy will always be here for you. I know you are scared of a lot of things because of what happened. Last week, you cried when we had our photo ID taken because of that big flash. I know it made you think of those times in the hospital. Please know that we will work with you to overcome those fears. We love you so much.

Happy 5th, my baby!

Birthday and visas

2011-08-05T07:27:00.003+07:00

The past few days, I have been busy preparing for EJ's Lightning McQueen themed birthday party. I got caught up with making the party decors. I have to say it was fun. EJ helped a lot with the paper cutting and seeing him excited about his big day is worth all the trouble.

I ordered his cupcakes and 3D Lightning McQueen at Bloom's. I can't wait to see how it turns out. As for the food, I did not want to be too stressed about it, so I just asked Bistro Filipino to cater for us.

Almost everything's set for the party next week. Hahaha, I am too early. But better early than last minute, right?

~~~

It's been raining hard lately here. Surprisingly, I am loving the weather. I always say I am not the rain kind of person.

I guess I have a change of heart. Or I am just tired of the hot and humidity here. Or whatever. For once, I'd like to layer my outfit too. LOL!

I just hope that with all the rain, it won't flood here.

~~~

Apart from preparing EJ's birthday party, I have been busy also preparing documents for our visa application somewhere.

One of the requirement is the health/medical insurance. I thought we'd have to purchase a new insurance because all we have is our life insurance. I remember our agent telling us about cancer patients and life insurance. That was pretty scary.

Anyway, it turns out we are covered from hubby's health insurance from work. Big sigh there. I was actually thinking of shelving the plan already.

Our interview is still two weeks away but I've got all the docs ready. Hahaha! Talk about being an eager beaver.

Hoping we'd get our visas!

Hello August!

2011-08-01T08:10:00.002+07:00

Here we are again. A new week. A new month. August. My favorite month!

After August, it's already the "ber" months. Which means Christmas is near. LOL! But the real reason August is my favorite month is because it's our birth month, EJ and I.

EJ turns 5 on the 10th. He's excited about it already. The past mornings, the minute he wakes up he asks me: Mom, is it my birthday yet or am I five already? Wow, I wish I could muster enough enthusiasm about adding a year to my age. LOL!

Since EJ's birthday falls on a weekday, I will just bring cupcakes for his school friends to enjoy. And then we'll have a simple celebration at home. I am making a pinata, and that's making him really excited about.

As for my birthday, I don't want any fanfare. I just want to eat outside with my boys so I don't have to cook. Hopefully the boys will remember to buy the first birthday gifts for women. Whatever. Hahahaha!!!

Anyway, happy Monday everyone! Let's spread cheer around us. Remember, nobody really cares if you're miserable, so might as well be happy (Anonymous) =)

Beautiful Samantha's Farm

2011-07-29T07:52:00.006+07:00

Remember Samantha's Farm? My brother invited us over for an overnight stay at their farm, Samantha's Farm in Morong Bataan.

They did some minor tweaking inside the house since my last post: they took out the bar and replaced it with a proper dining table, put a painting in the living area, and so on and so forth. The result, a beautiful and cozy atmosphere.

We would have loved to stay longer but the place was being rented the following day and besides we need to prepare our things before coming back here to Phnom Penh.

If you're in the Philippines for a vacation, why not explore Bataan and stay at Samantha's Farm? You'll have nature at its best for company.

A Cinema in Cambodia!

2011-07-26T07:24:00.009+07:00

A first cinema in Cambodia screening Hollywood movies has recently opened in Phnom Penh City. Yay!

It's about time, I'd say.

I heard from friends that you need to buy tickets in advance as they easily sell out. So I bought our Kung Fu Panda 2 tickets two days in advance.

EJ and Hubby after the show. We watched Kung Fu Panda 2 in 3D. And it was awesome!

This is the ticket counter. I love it that you get to choose your seats. By the way, the ticket price is $6 for the regular seat and $8 for a VIP seat. The difference? VIP seats are bigger and that's it.

Food Counter. Every ticket comes with a free $1 voucher good for a softdrinks.

Captain America, coming soon.

I love Kung Fu Panda 2. But I love Legend Cinemas even more for bringing it here. There is no need to go to Bangkok just to watch a movie. Some people do!

For more info, visit their Fan Page at Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LegendCinema and check back often. They are giving away tickets thru competitions and lucky draws.

Legend Cinemas
3rd floor CityMall, Street Monireth
Sangkat Veal Vong, Khan 7 Makara
Phnom Penh Cambodia
Tel #088 954 9857 (Contact time: 10:00 to 22:00 Everyday)

New Philippine Twenty Peso Bill

2011-07-23T02:39:00.002+07:00

Hubby paid our travel tax and he was given this as change.

Meet the new Philippine Twenty Peso Bill

According to the person manning the travel tax booth, the new Philippine Peso bill are out and the old ones will no longer be accepted by end of 2012.

Do you have the new Peso bills?

Signs of Independence

2011-07-22T08:17:00.005+07:00

We were having ice cream at Haagen Daz Megamall that afternoon. As most of the time when eating ice cream, EJ's shirt got dirty. I wouldn't have minded except that we still have some errands to do that day and a dirty boy by my side didn't suit me. LOL!

So off we went to a nearby GAP store to buy a new shirt for him.

When we were inside GAP, I left him with the sales attendant because they were chit chatting. When I found the shirt I went back to them.

EJ was already trying on a shoes. The attendant was helping him. EJ looked up. He said excitedly "Mom, this shoe is the same size as my shoes."

Okayyyy..I said. I watched in fascination. Then he said with a cute smile and pleading eyes "Mom, I am going to wear this everyday."

For the record, EJ does not like shopping. He is not impressed with what I buy for him - shoes or any clothes. He has never asked me to buy any. Come to think of it, he doesn't really ask much even inside a toy store. I am proud of that fact.

That moment when he asked me subtly to buy that shoes for him, I felt proud. Not because he's learning the art of shopping but because I feel that he's becoming an independent young man. He knows what he wants and he knows what is good for him.

Here is the shoes:

When I took this picture, I asked him to put his feet together. But he said, it's nicer if it's slightly apart.

After buying the shoes, he's stood to his words. He wears the shoes everyday. LOL! I do hope though that after giving in to his request (of buying the shoes) doesn't give him the idea that he can have whatever he wants and start asking us to buy things like newgy ping pong table.

He is turning 5 years old in less than three weeks. He's growing up so fast. Everyday I am amazed with what he can do.

Visiting Cebu

2011-07-21T10:15:00.007+07:00

I can't remember the last time I was in Cebu. It's been probably ten years or even more.

When I was planning our Philippines trip a few months ago, I suggested to hubby a short trip to Cebu. Hubby heartily agreed. It's been a while for him too. He's curious about the recent developments in the city. For me, I just want to taste again Cebu's famous lechon, otap and dried mango. LOL!

So after a 5-day stay in my home province, we went to Cebu. We took a Cebu Pacific plane from Surigao City. After 45 minutes up in the air, we were in Cebu already. It was fast. If only, CebuPac wasn't delayed we would have been in Cebu 3 hours ahead. Oh well.

We booked our accommodation at Radisson Blu Hotel Cebu. And I couldn't have booked for a better one. It was a pleasure to stay in this hotel.

Huge lobby. That's me and EJ.

The room, comes with free wifi and cable internet.

Elevators

Radisson Blu is just right beside SM City Cebu so dining choices is not limited to the hotel's cafe. Speaking of the hotel's cafe, Feria, their breakfast buffet was wonderful. And the staff were just great.

We did not want our stay in Cebu to be all about eating so made an effort to go around some spots like the Magellan's cross and Sto. Nino Church.

At the Magellan's cross.

Hubby and EJ lighting candles at Sto. Nino church. After this, we went to Ayala Terraces. I have been to Ayala before and I was surprised to see that it is now bigger and much nicer.

Ayala Malls are known for its nice malls and this one is no different. I love the huge open space with garden.

Cebu has changed a lot since my last visit. But the old charm is still there. I could see myself living in this city.

We did enjoy our short stay in Cebu. Unfortunately I wasn't able to eat lechon while we were there because we kept on postponing the trip to that famous lechon place until there was no more time. Too bad. But I got to eat otap and dried mangoes. Lots of it actually so I was happy. LOL!

Images from my hometown

2011-07-18T18:54:00.006+07:00

It's not even 7pm yet but EJ is already asleep. That's early, even for him. I guess he's still recovering from our hectic schedule in the Philippines.

I have been yawning too since 6pm but I don't want to sleep early because I don't want to wake up too early tomorrow.

So instead I am browsing photos from our vacation.

It surprised me that during the first 5-day of our vacation which was spent in Manila, we don't have a single photo. Not even when we had dinner with my siblings at Dampa Macapagal.

I don't know why. Maybe because of excitement?

I have photos the rest of our trip, like in Surigao, Cebu and Bataan. Still, not that much.

Let me share some photos we took in Surigao.

Multicab. Mode of transportation from one town to another. They come in different vibrant colors.

EJ, thinking how to cross the sea. LOL! My relatives were amazed how big EJ is now. They said they'll start preparing gifts for a college graduate soon. Hahaha!!!

We call this kinilaw na nukos. It's a kinilaw na pusit. For english readers, it's a fresh squid mixed with vinegar, lime/lemon, ginger, onions and a pinch of salt. It's like the national food in our place. I haven't met anyone who doesn't eat this one. Even my sister who does not eat kinilaw na isda or any kinilaw for that matter makes an exception for this. It's really that good.

Puto, biko, fresh fruits and sawsawan "inato" style. "Inato" means just the way we do it in our place. Ahhh...I am missing these foods now.

My town, Madrid, Surigao del Sur is about 3 hours away from Surigao City (Surigao del Norte) by road. Before you reach our beautiful place, you have to go through bumpy road and mountains. When it's rainy season, you might say it's like hell. I do hope that the local government or the national government will hear our pleas. It's been long enough that we have been neglected. We need good roads please.

Anyway, we stayed there for 5 days only. But during those five days, I felt like I have consumed food good for a month or so already. LOL!

I hope to be able to visit again soon.

So tired

2011-07-18T17:50:00.004+07:00

We're back in Cambodia. We arrived last night via Thai Airways from Manila with a short stop over in Bangkok.

The 17-day vacation in Philippines ended yesterday. It was so short and I feel "bitin". We had lined up so many activities. We even witnessed a legal paternity testing for a friend.

Last night, we arrived exhausted and just feeling drained.

I really wished we had more time in the Philippines. I even contemplated of staying behind with EJ while hubby returns to work. But I changed my mind. Staying in Manila without hubby is not just the same.

I don't have that much of photos this time compared to our previous vacations but I am just too tired to go through them now.

I will post stories and pictures once I get my mojo back.

I have to sort out things here at home first.

Sorry if I haven't been to your blogs for a while. I promise to visit again soon.

Leaving

2011-07-17T06:10:00.002+07:00

We're going back to Cambodia today. My heart is heavy. I don't want to go. At least not yet. I still want to enjoy Manila.

The last few days were hectic. We have been moving around Philippines. We went to Surigao, to Cebu, and Bataan.

In less than two week's time we managed to visit the three big islands in the Philippines - Mindanao, Visayas and Luzon. LOL!

We also had a birthday party to attend to but we had to decline. I just had to
buy birthday gifts online and send it via mail.

I wish we could visit Pinas every month. There's really no place like home.

Back to Internet World

2011-07-13T07:18:00.004+07:00

We're back in Manila again after spending a week in my hometown - Madrid, Surigao del Sur, and a 3-day stay in Cebu City. It was a short trip. I would have loved to stay longer but we just can't afford it. Hubby's work is missing him =)

Nevertheless it was a great trip, mostly a food trip and bonding with family and relatives.

Here's one food I've been missing in Cambodia that I have indulged in the province - Sinugba na Bangus (Inihaw na Bangus/Grilled Milkfish)

We have the electric grill at home but we did not use it. Instead we used the uling (charcoal) we got from the market. This bangus was sooo yummy. Dipped in soysauce with kalamansi and chili, it was perfect!

We have until Sunday here in Manila and it's back to Cambodia after that. Ahh...if only I could stay longer, if only Cambodia is nearer...

Home sweet home

2011-07-02T07:57:00.004+07:00

Good morning Ortigas!

It feels good to be in the Philippines. We had our first meal, a late dinner at McDo last night. Not really a Filipino meal but we had no choice as it was already late.

Today, we are going to the doctors for routine check ups. EJ with his pedia and I with my OB. Hubby wants to see a dentist too. So many expenses! Not to mention the shopping. LOL! I should have told hubby to avail of the payday advances. We might run out of batteries while here. Hahahaha!!!

Later on, we are going to have dinner with my family at MOA. I am so excited to see my beautiful nieces again.

It's bright and sunny today.

I can't wait to go out.

My boys are still sleeping though.

And I am already thinking what to order at Jollibee for my breakfast. Wake up boys. LOL!

It comes in 3's

2011-06-28T07:29:00.003+07:00

I had a migraine yesterday. I really hate when that happens. I feel so useless. I can't function with a migraine and the worst thing is I can't seem to make it go away even with meds.

But despite the migraine, it was still a happy day.

First, I got a good deal. I bought a dining table for only $50 from an expat family leaving Cambodia. It's wood and it is still goodlooking. It would have cost me at least $400 if I buy a new one.

Second, our beta fishes gave signs that they are ready to spawn. In the next few days, we'll have little beta fishes in our little aquarium!

Last but definitely not the least, hubby has just been promoted. He's now the Head of Network Planning and Optimization. I am so proud of him. It's unexpected but it's well deserved.

Hon, congratulations!!! I believe in your talents. I am sure you'll go far in your career. I will always be here to support you. I love you. Mwah!

Boomer

2011-06-24T09:37:00.003+07:00

EJ has a healthy curiosity just like kids his age. We do encourage him to explore things. After all, curiosity is the father/mother of learning. Or something like that. LOL!

I don't remember when he exactly learned about toy guns. Or where he learned/discovered about them. We never bought him one. Not even those uncle mikes holsters lookalike toys.

Hubby and I think toy guns aren't much of an educational toy so we veered away from it. I don't know, I also don't want EJ to think those are cool toys. That's just our opinions.

Anyway, EJ learned about those toys. Probably from his school friends. Here's a funny thing, he doesn't know what they're called. Hahahaha!!!

He uses his fingers and says "boom! boom!"

And I'd ask, what is that?

He'd then say, it's a boomer!

LOL! Bless him.

We knew that eventually EJ would play games like that but at least he doesn't play that all the time. And he even doesn't know what it's called.

Do you think we should correct him or just let him think it's really a "boomer?"

Evolution of our passports

2011-06-23T17:02:00.001+07:00

I wrote about the delay of our passports here in this blog. But last Friday, I got a call from the embassy. Our passports have arrived. Finally!

I was getting worried because we are travelling next week. And before that we have to apply for our visa here in Cambodia. We want to do it before we leave so when we come back here, we won't have trouble at the immigration in Manila.

Here's how our Philippine Passports have evolved. At least in our case.

From left to right: ePassport, MRP (machine readable passport), old green passport

When I posted a status in my FB mentioning that our passport was delayed I got reaction from a friend in Clark. She said that it's going to take a while, about 2 months, to get a new ePassport from their place because according to DFA in Clark the printing machines in Central Bank are not working well/broken.

I don't know how long it takes for them before they sort out this problem. Hopefully sooner. I bet a lot of people want to get their passport asap.

By the way, what Philippine passport are you using?

EJ can read books already

2011-06-21T08:23:00.008+07:00

Hubby and I know EJ can read a few words. But we were a little surprised when he read the whole book all by himself.

It was a new book and we haven't read it to him yet. Then he started reading it from the title until he reached the last page.

The first book he read all by himself was about Handy Manny. Inspired by his reading abilities, we went to Monument Bookstore along Norodom Boulevard last Saturday and let him buy three books he wanted. He said he wanted to buy five books. What can we say, but yes, even if it was beyond our budget that day.

With books, we always try to stretch our budget =)

Here is EJ reading a Dr. Seuss book. We bought this book during that trip to the bookstore last Saturday. When we got home, he read it right away.

I know it's not unusual for a 4 year and 10 month old kid to be able to read all by himself but hubby and I are proud of him.

I think I started reading only when I was seven years old. So EJ is quite ahead of us. But then, kids these days are ahead of their years right?

Still, we are so proud of him. Reading to him at a very early age (I started reading to him when he was 6 month old) has paid off.

Good job babe!

Happy Father's Day!!!

2011-06-20T08:55:00.003+07:00

To EJ's dad - Happy Father's Day, Hon!

I hope you know how much we appreciate everything you've done for us. You're not just a great provider, you're a great dad to EJ. I couldn't have asked for a better father. I thank God for you. Thank you so much. We love you.

To my own father, Happy Father's Day, Tay. I've learned so much from you and from your teachings. Thank you for molding me into who I am today.

And to all the Dads out there, Happy Father's Day. Hope you had a great time celebrating your day with your family.

Cheers to the great Dads around the world!

Passport and upcoming trip

2011-06-15T10:35:00.003+07:00

It's been two months now since I renewed our passports (EJ's and mine). And I still don't have it.

I went to the Philippine Embassy last week (Tuesday) to follow up and they said they're still waiting for the passports. They're expecting a package on Wednesday last week and hopefully our passports are included.

I called them again last Thursday and they said our passports are not there yet. Probably in the next batch.

Uh-oh.

We will be going to the Philippines on July 1. While we can still use our current passports going home, we might not be able to travel back here to PP because our current passports will be expiring November this year. You have to have a valid passport with a 6 months validity prior to expiration

I am little bit worried.

Tomorrow, after I check on Black Diamond Z-Poles, I will go to the embassy. I hope to get our new epassports soon.

By the way, the receptionist at the embassy told me they can extend the expiration of our passports if ever we don't get our epassports before our travel. That's a relief. But as much as possible I don't want to travel with my old passport (still handwritten, LOL!) and also I want my new visa here in Cambodia to be in my new passport so I don't have to carry two passports all the time.

Lesson learned here: I should have renewed our passports early together with hubby. Nagtitipid kase ako. LOL!

UPDATE: We got our ePassports already last Friday. It took two months and a few days. I was getting worried but thankfully it did arrive before our trip.

The never ending questions

2011-06-13T11:04:00.005+07:00

Last night, I told EJ we should be asleep by 8:30pm. Why so early? Well, it's actually for EJ only because he has a full day class now and he does not take a nap anymore. But hubby and I also fall asleep in the process. Hahaha!!!

Anyway, at about 8pm, I told EJ to settle down. But he was still playing with the flash light.

Me: EJ, please put the flashlight back on the table. That's only for emergency use.
EJ: What is emergency, mommy?
Me: Emergency is for immediate need of assistance, like when there is no electricity or when there is earthquake...
EJ: What is earthquake?
Me: When the earth shakes.
EJ: Why does the earth shake?
Me: When there is a volcano eruption, sometimes there is earthquake.
EJ: Like in Japan. They had an earthquake.
Me: Yes. They also have tsunami after the earthquake.
EJ: What is tsunami?
Me: Tsunami is when the water in the ocean rises. And it goes to the land.
EJ: Huh?
Me: Tsunami is very dangerous.
EJ: What makes the earth shake again?
Me: Volcanic eruptions, tectonic plate (Why did I bring this up? I was asking for trouble!)
EJ: What is tectonic plate?
Me: Honey, help me outta here! LOL! Well, inside the earth there are big rocks moving and it makes the earth shake (I actually don't know what I was talking about! LOL!)

Before EJ could ask more questions, I said:
Me: I think that's enough questions for tonight. It's time to sleep.
EJ: Aaaaaa...I still want to learn.
Me: That's why you go to school to learn. Hahahaha!!! Goodnight.

And that's how we slept past our bedtime last night at 8:45pm.

Work and Food

2011-06-09T08:48:00.002+07:00

When will these condescending remarks on Stay at Home Moms (SAHMs) ever stop? Well, I am past the stage where I get defensive and angry. I still get annoyed but I just let the comments I hear pass by. What do they know anyway, right?

The other day, I was talking to a Filipina Nanny. She asked me if I work. I said, I am a stay at home mom. Oh! She said. My boss (Filipina too) is different. She does not like to stay idle. She likes to work. She's used to working all her life and staying at home does not suit her.

Good for your boss, I thought. I felt like she was insinuating I was lazy and useless. But instead of defending myself, I just smiled at her. It was pointless to explain to her my choice.

Anyway, I felt a little down after that incident. So yesterday, I asked hubby if we could have lunch out together. I was craving for a fish or meat drowned in heavy sauce like the one we had at La Marmite, french restaurant, a month ago.

Pork in heavy mushroom sauce

Dory fish with white sauce

Yum! But instead hubby brought me to Kobe, a japanese restaurant along Sothearos Boulevard.

I must say I had the most wonderful lunch yesterday. The grilled seafood and beef were absolutely gorgeous. The beef was tender and juicy. It was perfect.

Thanks Hon for bringing me there.

I'd like to bring my friends there today if they're game.

A year in Owls 2

2011-06-07T08:31:00.011+07:00

EJ has just finished OWLS 2 last Friday. The school had a party last Wednesday and celebrated it with International Children's Day also. Parents were there and the school had done a great job in showcasing the children's work and setting up various rooms of different countries.

As for the children, they had their own mini party last Friday which I have mentioned in my previous post already.

This is EJ's Owls 2 class.

We got EJ's folder of activities for the whole year. I loved going through it and letting EJ explain everything.

Let me share some of the activities they had during his OWLS 2 year.

Catch a rainbow experiment.

They had baking activity every Friday. Here, he's making a King's Crown cookie. On the other picture, he's just happy splashing on the side of the pool. They have swimming class every Thursday. But EJ is still not confident going to the "deep end" though.

Science Experiment: What dissolves in water? I think I only had science experiments when we were in Grade 4. Kids really have an early start nowadays.

Rainbow painting.

Life cycle of a butterfly. EJ loved this activity. And it has really stuck in his mind. Great job, babe!

~~~

And oh, EJ had a great first day of full day class yesterday. My phone was with me the whole day yesterday until I picked him up. I was just nervous the whole day but everything turned out well for him. I guess it was just me who was not ready for him to be away from me the whole day. Yeah, signs of a parent's separation anxiety. LOL!

Full day class for EJ

2011-06-06T09:38:00.002+07:00

EJ's last day of school was last Friday. They had a party in their class which he absolutely enjoyed. They had games and they sang all morning. When I picked him up, he had the biggest smile on his face.

Today is the start of their summer class. I tentatively enrolled him in a full day class for one week. If everything is okay, I will probably enroll him for two more weeks of full day summer class before we go to Philippines for our vacation.

I am a little nervous. It's EJ's first full day class. He's used to me picking him up just before lunch time.

We talked to him already. And he seemed to be excited with the idea of a full day class. Still...I am apprehensive and okay, really nervous. What if?

There is really nothing to lose. If he doesn't like to stay in class the whole day, he can still go back to half day class the rest of the summer.

So, I don't know why I am nervous about all this?

Quiet day at home

2011-06-05T14:38:00.005+07:00

It's a quiet Sunday here at home. It's been like this for the past couple of weeks now. We just stay at home and watch DVD all day or just read books.

For lunch, I cooked chicken menudo. I thought it was good but EJ did not eat his share. It must have been a little sour. Will put a little sugar next time.

After lunch, hubby slept while EJ continued his TV time. I prepared our dinner menu for next week. And then suddenly inspired by my friends post, (one posted it in her blog and the other posted it in her FB account), I cooked Maja Blanca.

Hubby has been craving for this Filipino dessert but it's not available in Bistro Lorenzo, the Filipino restaurant, here. I was not in the mood for any cooking last week (blame it to my diet again!) so I did not make it.

Then I saw my friends posting their Maja Blanca. Yum! That made me check our cupboard for ingredients.

Luckily I have all the ingredients, well except for the sweetened flaked coconut. I thought we could do without it since it's just a topping anyway.

Here's the Maja Blanca Recipe I got from Allrecipes.com:

Ingredients

1/2 cup water
1/2 cup cornstarch
1 cup coconut milk
3/4 cup water
1/2 cup white sugar
1/4 cup fresh sweet corn kernels
1/4 cup sweetened flaked coconut

Directions

1. Butter an 8-inch baking dish or pie pan, and set aside. Mix 1/2 cup of water with the cornstarch in a bowl, and stir until smooth.

2. Combine the coconut milk, 3/4 cup of water, and sugar in a saucepan over low heat, and stir until the sugar is dissolved. Bring the mixture to a boil, add the corn kernels, and then stir in the cornstarch mixture, stirring quickly to avoid lumps as it becomes very thick. Bring the mixture back to a boil, and simmer until fully thickened and smooth, stirring constantly, about 2 minutes. Pour the maja blanca into the prepared dish, and set aside to cool until firm, about 2 hours.

3. Place the coconut flakes in a dry skillet over medium heat, and stir to toast. Watch them carefully so they don't burn. Remove the toasted coconut flakes to a bowl, let cool, and sprinkle over the pudding before serving.

Since I am on a self-imposed diet (again!), I just had a tablespoon of it. I had it with green tea. Yummmmm!!!

How is your Sunday guys? Whether you're busy or having a quiet day like us, be safe always. Happy Sunday!

Teacher for a few minutes

2011-06-04T08:35:00.003+07:00

I was asked by Teacher Ros (EJ's teacher) a couple of weeks ago to come to their school and talk a little about Philippines. Their class was exploring places and people.

I would have deferred the invitation to hubby but hubby has been there last month also to talk about his job, since they were talking about occupation at that time.

So anyway, I said yes.

I prepared pictures of Philippine Map, points of interest like Banaue Rice Terraces, Chocolate Hills, Mayon Volcano, Tarsier, etc..

The kids seemed to be really listening well to me. Hahaha!!!

After the talk, Teacher Ros encouraged the kids to ask questions. I was afraid I might not be able to answer the questions. Thankfully, they did not ask difficult ones so I was able to answer them. LOL!

Teacher Ros thanked me afterwards. She said I did a wonderful job. I knew she was just being polite. Hahaha!!!

The next day, hubby told me that Teacher Ros told him again how nice my presentation was. She wanted to visit Philippines now. LOL!

Last Wednesday, EJ's school had a year end party. A parent of EJ's classmate said Hi. And then she told me how my talk had inspired his son to go and visit the Philippines. She said, her son came home that day and suddenly announced "Mommy, I want to go to the Philippines!" She was surprised, she asked "why is that?" "EJ's mom came to the class today and she showed us beautiful pictures of the Philippines and this small animal called Tarsier. I want to visit the Philippines"

LOL!

I was just being honest during my talk. I love my country and I guess it showed when I told them how beautiful my country is. The kids have very impressionable minds so it must have stuck in their cute little heads.

Maybe it's not too late yet to change careers? Hahaha!!! Just kidding.

A visit to Phnom Tamao Zoo

2011-06-03T08:27:00.009+07:00

EJ has been asking me to bring him to a Zoo. I think they were talking about animals at school. He's been to several Zoo actually but I guess, it's not fresh in his mind anymore.

So instead of making Paper Culture holiday cards that day, we decided to bring him to Phnom Tamao Zoological Garden and Rescue Center last Saturday.

It's about 40 kilometers away from Phnom Penh. But it took us about an hour to reach there by car.

The entrance fee for foreigners is $5. Children are free. The place is huge. It's advisable to bring a car or even a tuktuk to tour inside.

We went to the bird sanctuary first. Kids will automatically swarm you eager to be a guide.

The entrance. It was a beautiful day. Look at the sky.

You will see these birds freely roaming the area. I was so scared. I have this weird phobia of anything with beak.

They have a lake inside. I am not sure if it is natural or man-made. But it was nice.

Inside the bird sanctuary, we also saw monkeys caged and not caged (which terrified me again LOL), turtles, squirrels and deers, some caged and some not caged like this one.

You can buy sliced sugar cane from this girl and feed it to deers.

After the birds, we went to see the Asiatic Black Bears.

I saw this one, taking a dip. He/She was cute.

Saw a bull.

A Tiger, he was too far away from us. We did not get to see him up close.

The expansion of the Tiger enclosure was made possible by a couple from Australia.

A lion

Elephants

At 11:30am, we left the place. There were still a couple more of animals to visit but we decided to skip it and probably come back next time.

This Zoo is not your regular tourist attraction. For one the facilities still needs a lot of improvement. But this place has a lot of potential. It just needs a lot of fund though, which they willingly accept.

By the way, the scenery on the way there is just lovely. I posted it earlier but here's a couple more shots.