On the way to... Honey

30 May 2010

2010-05-14T13:42:00.000+10:00

Mother's Day: 8 May 2010

2010-05-10T19:03:00.001+10:00

Breakfast in bed... a couple of dollars...

Yum cha with the boys [with Rea & myself]... priceless!

Another Meet and Greet with the Bulldogs

2010-05-05T15:56:00.000+10:00

Aiyee is into making books...

2009-10-15T11:39:00.000+11:00

Team Jaylen

2009-09-18T15:59:00.003+10:00

Team Jaylen and the rest of the gang gives a big "Thank You" to Neola, Tony & Menchie, Inez, Nanette & Bob, Manny & Do, Mac, Tita Wiws & family, Michelle, Lou, Carmencita, Emma, Julie, Jimmy & the countless titos and titas, who are my mom and dad's friends for supporting us in this year's fund raising.

You should've have been there to see all the white and blue baloons!

Hope to see you next year at Light the Night 2010!

Pappy's site...

Light the Night 2009: 16 Sept

2009-08-12T20:18:00.004+10:00

Event date: Sep 16, 2009 5:30 PM

Location: Parramatta Park, Sydney

Please help us Light the Night by making a donation towards our fundraising.

I'm joining thousands of people to Light the Night. We'll carry coloured balloons each with a tiny light inside. It will be a beautiful night and with your help we can do something good; raising vital funds for patients and families living with blood cancers, such as leukaemia, lymphoma and myeloma.

The money we will raise will be invested in critical research into better treatments and hopefully cures, as well as supporting patients during their long and tough treatment. Remember, celebrate and give hope at Light the Night by making a donation or joining my team.

http://ijaylen.blogspot.com/

Kallen in black

2009-08-11T00:09:00.001+10:00

Favourite things in hands, toy on one hand and food on the other...

Happy Birthday Ate Aida

2009-07-28T18:53:00.002+10:00

Jaylen soccer 2009

2009-07-26T19:37:00.000+10:00

At Popo's birthday...

2009-07-21T19:19:00.002+10:00

The gang of four at Popo's birthday last February, taken at a Vietnamese restaurant. The boys; Josh, Kallen, Jay and Aiyee, are mucking around in the restaurant's stage.

Honey calls me FB and not MB...

2009-07-07T14:39:00.003+10:00

Here's why...

And yes, my Facebook link is....

[Thanks to Happy Slip aka Christine Gambito.]

Entry on FB: One day I will...

2009-07-01T23:56:00.008+10:00

"I've been reading that some of you guys are celebrating/celebrated your birthdays and it seems that every year added is a final demand to focus on something. It could be a career change, retirement, seachange of sorts, travel or crossing off that "bucket list" [if ever you have one]!

As we grow older, we can no longer afford to say "One day I will..." for we won't know if tomorrow will ever come at all..." [From my entry on Facebook]

Just in case you were wondering about the photo above, it is my grandson's Jaylen's foot resting on my car's dashboard one day in 27 January 2009 on the way home from Sydney Children's Hospital in Randwick. He was sleeping in the car.

I took him there for his monthly check up and everything is all clear [for those who does not know, he is recuperating from ALL - a type of leukaemia]. With lots of prayers, goodwill and best wishes from friends and relatives; as well as the power of science and medicines - Jaylen is now ok.

Speaking of "final demand to focus" on life - this boy has the heart to live a full life and he deserved to live a full one. For us who are much older... that "time" is nearing and that "demand" to celebrate life to the fullest is very fast approaching. Hence this unsolicited advise:
"Carpe diem"!

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Sorry for not updating this blog... I am just a bit busy with friends on Facebook... finally succumbing to it.

Mothers, daughters, sons, etc.

2009-05-13T20:37:00.022+10:00

Perfect Mother's Day with family and loved ones...
Mother's Day flowers with breakfast in bed...

Maico & Ryan

Kimi & Ate Mae

Am I a "looser"?

Because Kimi and I kept taking each other's picture...

Rea & Honey

Ryan & Ate Kayna [right] Kiara on Kuya Mac

Wiws & Megan sharing IPod...

Kayna and John mucking around with the cake & icing.

Kaizza, Kimi, Ate K Mae and Kayna.

Happy Mother's Day!

2009-05-08T15:03:00.003+10:00

My mother will turn 90 years old this coming June. She's staying with me [actually in my house, for most of the time I am at work till late!] for most days with people from some government department with her when we are at work. She's one of those people who is fiercely independent and wanted to be "of use". She reads her paperbooks and just yesterday went to the local library with one of the ladies.

I think I got my cheeky side from her!

Happy Mother's Day nanay Olive and to all!

Especially to Honey and Rea... even though they are not my mother!

Good Friday lunch

2009-05-06T19:48:00.012+10:00

While Honey looks tired, daughter Rea is happy with all the seafood spread, remember being "Good Friday".

Looks like one happy customer, having sinigang na isda. While Kallen still not too sure what is happening... mmmmm... "can I have some of that Aiyee?"

Aiyee, still happy and contented, dishing out the sinigang and beside is the mussels in red wine!

Jaylen looking not too happy with his favourite shrimps in coconut milk, or is he waiting for "someone" to peel them off for him? Or he does not like the fried tilapia in front of him? [Lower left is the sauce for the fried tilapia, similar recipe here.]

Too bad Charlie was off with a friend doing a dry run for an elaborate marriage proposal!

On being a grandparent...

2009-05-01T12:10:00.005+10:00

I know, I know - we look young to be grandparents... but hey that's not our "problem". Heheheheee.

I guess that is one of the "bonuses" of marrying young and your children marrying young as well. You can enjoy your grand children much earlier and play with them while you are young. Do you know how much energy and attention these kids require? You have to be fit, young and on your toes. They have all these curious and difficult questions and heart stopping games that you need to do with them.

Nowadays, young people just want to enjoy life, travel, etc. to their mid-thirties and finding out later they wanted a family and kids. Look at movie stars, they are so engrossed with their physical image and their careers; and at a later stage, they want kids and family. Some resort to science to have kids, and some just adopt. Anyway, to each his own.

I received an email from a friend, and I just couldn't help stop smiling. Kids have this innocent and funny outlook in life that we adults seem to forget. Kids makes us remember how to be young.

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"She was in the bathroom, putting on her makeup, under the watchful eyes of her young granddaughter, as she'd done many times before. After she applied her lipstick and started to leave, the little one said, 'But Gramma, you forgot to kiss the toilet paper good-bye!'

I will probably never put lipstick on again without thinking about kissing the toilet paper good-bye! "

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"My young grandson called the other day to wish me Happy Birthday. He asked me how old I was, and I told him, '62.' He was quiet for a moment, and then he asked, 'Did you start at 1?' "

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"After putting her grandchildren to bed, a grandmother changed into old slacks and a droopy blouse and proceeded to wash her hair. As she heard the children getting more and more rambunctious, her patience grew thin. Finally, she threw a towel around her head and stormed into their room, putting them back to bed with stern warnings. As she left the room, she heard the three-year-old say with a trembling voice, 'Who was THAT?' "

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"A grandmother was telling her little granddaughter what her own childhood was like: 'We used to skate outside on a pond. I had a swing made from a tire; it hung from a tree in our front yard. We rode our pony. We picked wild raspberries in the woods.'

The little girl was wide-eyed, taking this all in. At last she said, 'I sure wish I'd gotten to know you sooner!' "

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"My grandson was visiting one day when he asked, 'Grandma, do you know how you and God are alike?' I mentally polished my halo and I said, 'No, how are we alike?' ' You're both old,' he replied."

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"A little girl was diligently pounding away on her grandfather's word processor. She told him she was writing a story. 'What's it about?' he asked. 'I don't know,' she replied. 'I can't read.' "

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"I didn't know if my granddaughter had learned her colors yet, so I decided to test her. I would point out something and ask what color it was. She would tell me and was always correct. It was fun for me, so I continued. At last she headed for the door, saying, 'Grandma, I think you should try to figure out some of these yourself!' "

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"When my grandson Melvin and I entered our vacation cabin, we kept the lights off until we were inside to keep from attracting pesky insects. Still, a few fireflies followed us in. Noticing them before I did, Billy whispered, 'It's no use Grandpa. Now the mosquitoes are coming after us with flashlights.' "

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"When my grandson asked me how old I was, I teasingly replied, 'I'm not sure.' 'Look in your underwear, Grandpa,' he advised. 'Mine says I'm four to six.' "

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"A second grader came home from school and said to her grandmother, 'Grandma, guess what? We learned how to make babies today.' The grandmother, more than a little surprised, tried to keep her cool. 'That's interesting,' she said, 'how do you make babies? ''It's simple,' replied the girl. 'You just change 'y' to 'i' and add 'es'.' "

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Hopefully my three boys won't come home one day to tell Honey* and me that they can make babies!

*Honey is the name Jaylen [now Aiyee and Kallen too] gave to their grandma. I wasn't calling her "Honey" and Honey kept asking me who am I calling Honey... kids.

My Bulldogs fans

2009-04-08T21:28:00.002+10:00

These guys are big Bulldogs fans [Oz Rugby league football team], but they are also Honey's biggest fans. Between Bulldogs and Honey - Honey win hands down!

Loving Hawaii!

2009-04-03T15:35:00.003+11:00

This picture reminds me how the kids enjoyed our holiday in Hawaii late last year. Rea always remind me especially when Jetstar has this low fare sale to Hawaii.

Not to mention the generosity of my brother-in-law, Kuya Cesar and his wife, Ate Lita and the rest of the family.

Should we go again?

Surprised!

2009-01-24T23:38:00.005+11:00

Honey was pleasantly surprised by friends and relatives who turned up on her surprise birthday party held one Saturday this January. This is one of those real surprise birthday party that my daughter and I engineered in a record breaking two weeks!

This is in a Thai resto; in which I emailed everyone that we have already exhausted our holidays and there is no way I can bring her to Thailand or another cruise, in which cas she would have loved! So next best thing is in a Thai Resto... heheheee.

Part of her amiga who managed to make it inspite of the short notice.

As always, the food was great but the company of friends and relatives that came was greater!

Three more "blogs"

2009-01-04T23:50:00.003+11:00

Nothing better to do this weekend, except clearing my backyard I call "garden", I created another three "blogs" for my boys: all inspired by a certain cartoon network show, guess what?

Here are the links, kinda cute if you ask me; but again these are my favourite boys:

Jaylen - click here...

Ashlee - here and

Kalen - here...

Day 1: 2009

2009-01-01T23:39:00.002+11:00

New Year 2009 for mother and daughter.

Rea and Charles hosted us and their friends to their brand of New Year's Eve party at their house. All away from the hustle and bustle of Sydney CBD, where people were camping since yesterday to get a glimpse of that famed Sydney tax-funded NYE 2009 fireworks.

When it was time to watch the fireworks, we had the best view: in our air conditioned space, drinks in hand, with the kids either running around or safely tucked in bed, munching (still) without any worries about the stifling crowd - in front of the telly!

While we did not have that "live" atmosphere, what is more important is the company of loved ones!

Welcome 2009!

... and a Happy New Year:2009!

2008-12-31T15:17:00.005+11:00

Pinoys would know the significance of the photo above. We have always these during New Year: hint - round things; to usher every New Year.

Whew it's hot outside: 38 degrees C! Now this is summer... but a tad too hot for me...

Received a pps of Celine Dion's rendition of "Happy Christmas":

"So this is Christmas

And what have you done

Another year over

And a new one just begun

And so this is Christmas

I hope you have fun

The near and the dear ones

The old and the young a very Merry Christmas

And a Happy New Year

Let's hope it's a good one!"

Exactly my sentiments... let us hope the coming new year is better than the last... and what have I done... err... Have a Happy New Year!

Again, Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year from the boys!

2008-12-24T21:37:00.002+11:00

Just could not resist publishing this photo of the boys!

Every occasion, my daughter usually whips out her digi-cam (she has a new Canon 860 IS) and create personalised cards. Cost: about 20 cents per copy (postcard size) to develop and lots of creativity and love. She even creates a personalised gift cards for each of the boys!

Photo above and below by Rea.

Happy Holidays & Merry Christmas To All

2008-12-24T20:54:00.005+11:00

Well this is a most appropriate wear for a downunder Christmas - singlets. As most of you are aware, Oz is in the southern hemisphere and is "summer" here, hence the singlet outfits.

"Summer" in quotations since it is not that hot... actually the forecast is rain - so the traditional Aussie Christmas day lunch at the beach is somewhat in peril. But as most Aussie can testify, a rainy day won't dampen any Chrissy celebration... I know it won't in my clan.

We traditionally celebrate Christmas mid-night dinner as most Europeans do, so an indoor venue would do. The celebration and food is a mix tradition of sorts: Oz settings and weather, Pinoy foods with the ube (purple yam) pudding/cake; pan de sal (Pinoy bread) and my wife traditional dishes of gallo de gallego soup (Pinoy style as handed down by the Spanish via Cavite: instead of ham hocks and corn for callos, beef and/or chicken and beef bones, pasta shells, carrots, potatoes and onions); pork barbeque in bamboo skewers and menudo (again Pinoy style). With some western traditional fares of ham and turkey (we don't have Thanksgiving Day, hence the chance to have some turkey!).

Definitely the toys for the kids occupy a central place under the Christmas tree and my daughter at the moment is still convincing her boys to sleep and be awakened for the midnight Chrissy gift openings. Cool for both kids and adults, Australia is one of the first countries to celebrate Christmas and we are obviously also the first ones to open our gifts! The Anglo Aussies will have to wait for Christmas morning, while the kids will have some more gifts to open from their Ninongs and Ninangs (Godparents).

As always, this time is for family and friends to share the joys of Christmas, to share whatever we can especially with those who are more in need. Let us therefore enjoy and celebrate these holidays but always keep in our minds and hearts the "needs and wants of others". Life is best shared with others, not just with friends and families.

In awe at Seaworld

2008-11-26T11:38:00.004+11:00

The kids faces says it all. They are so in awe and so are all of the adults, whether they've seen the Shamu "show" for the first time or not. See photo below, who wouldn't be in awe?

Aiyee meditating

2008-11-24T04:27:00.002+11:00

Kids learn so much just watching TV, Aiyee must have been watching one of those Kung Fu cartoons and manage to learn the benefits of meditation.

Shown above meditating; which he confirmed when asked, under one of the various sculptures at the Embarcadero Marina Park in San Diego. Must be the stress of travelling!

Happy Birthday Daddy!

2008-11-22T09:52:00.003+11:00

The boys spend their day today, Friday, 21 Nov 2008 at Legoland with their parents; who jetted from NY just last night. Saturday is Charles birthday and who knows where the kids are taking their dad for his b-day bash.

A visit to Jollibee

2008-11-21T19:07:00.003+11:00

It is fairly obvious that the kids love Jollibee, both the mascot and the food. As we don't have any Jollibee in Oz, the kids were excited to see the familiar Jollibee mascot and had a photo op before eating their orders of burgers and fried chicken.

I believe Jollibee is one of the first fast foods chain expanded internationally: in 1986 in Taiwan and followed in most US cities.

At San Diego Harbor: Embarcadero

2008-11-21T18:28:00.005+11:00

Taken at The Embarcadero (Spanish for 'landing place") Marina Park along the San Diego Harbor (California). In the background is one of the US Navy ships sailing on the way out to sea, a common sight in this "navy town".

"The Embarcadero Marina is a quarter mile long boardwalk and connects the Embarcadero to Seaport Village and the Convention Center. The Embarcadero Marina is actually an arm of land that reaches into the San Diego Bay, enveloping the shiny white boats moored at the edge of Seaport Village." 1

The boys enjoyed playing in the park.

Happy Birthday Dy!

2008-11-21T03:40:00.003+11:00

From all of us! May you have more birthdays to come...

Family portrait on Vegas strip

2008-11-20T05:12:00.000+11:00

At Stratosphere

2008-11-19T14:04:00.002+11:00

Aiyee and Jay veging out at our room at Stratosphere, as usual watching cartoons on TV.

Touchdown Vegas!

2008-11-16T05:03:00.001+11:00

As if one would not notice landing at Vegas with all the casinos in view from the airport!

Happy Birthday Rea!

2008-11-14T11:58:00.005+11:00

Nothing is more fitting for my daughter, Rea to celebrate her birthday in Las Vegas, not that she gambles. On the contrary she does not gamble at all, she rather spent her money shopping - and Las Vegas is famous for shopping. Not your ordinary mall or outlet types, but your signature labels and not that she could afford those as well; just window - wish shopping.

For her birthday, she managed to score a Burberry bag for her birthday from hubby, Charles. She reckons; and she always does, that it is significantly cheaper here than in Oz - always!

They are heading to NY for more, hopefully just sightseeing and vacation. What a way to spend one's birthday.

Happy birthday sweetheart!

Jay, Aiyee and Kallen at LAX

2008-11-13T08:23:00.003+11:00

Just the boys saying "Hello" from LAX while enroute to Las Vegas for Lola Julia's 50th Wedding Anniversary.

The boys did enjoyed the beaches in Honolulu with Lolo Cesar and Lola Lita, with cousins Czar and Lyra.

Also see Pappy's LAX early morning shoot... not that good though.

Facebook tee

2008-10-28T16:12:00.004+11:00

I love this photo of Kallen with his cheeky Facebook t-shirt:

"they're not my parents, we met on Facebook!"

Be wary of what you post on your facebook as your potential and present employer might be reading them. Not that Kallen needs to worry at this stage... he's just worried with his parents at the moment!

June 3

2008-10-22T08:57:00.003+11:00

Picture taken by Rea of Nanay Olive with Jaylen in my induction dinner and dance. Incidentally they were both born on the same date - June 3.

Day out at Coogee

2008-10-21T14:36:00.003+11:00

Photo by Rea. Jaylen "burying" Aiyee.

This spring weather is becoming more like summer everyday. Good in a way, kids can enjoy going to the beach again - even for another four months or so.

Photo was taken during one of the boys' playgroup outing at Coogee Beach:

The name Coogee is said to be taken from a local Aboriginal word koojah which means "smelly place", or "stinking seaweed", a reference to the smell of decaying kelp washed up on the beach. Although at certain times large quantities of seaweed are still washed up, it is usually removed before it gets a chance to stink."

As most things Australian, important places have Aboriginal names and link to these original inhabitants.

Ice Cream at Town Hall

2008-10-20T14:20:00.002+11:00

Honey enjoying a low-fat, "healthy" ice cream treat on the way home from the city (Town Hall rail station in the middle of the Sydney CBD.). I recalled she let me have a couple of bite of that yummy ice cream!

project551 - Charles & Kallen

2008-10-14T09:27:00.003+11:00

Taken with Rea's new Canon IXUS 860 IS for project551.

Focal lenght: 4.6mm, F-number: F2.8, Exposure time: 1/60 sec

Family self portrait - Funny Faces

2008-10-10T09:24:00.003+11:00

That's my usually lovely daughter and her family having fun with her new Canon IXUS 860.

Honey circa 1979

2008-10-09T20:54:00.003+11:00

One of Honey's numerous portrait taken by me. This was taken at Tadlac, Los Banos, Laguna on the shores of Laguna de Bay. I scanned this for posterity.

Ashlee's drawing

2008-10-09T20:46:00.001+11:00

This is Ashlee's family on paper.

Kallen's new line

2008-10-09T20:34:00.002+11:00

Kallen says "I am telling...." whenever his brothers annoy him.

Kallen skateboarding

2008-10-05T09:00:00.002+11:00

Kallen's version of "body skateboarding".

Informal Photo Shoot - Pappy & Honey

2008-10-05T08:50:00.003+11:00

Honey bought her Indian outfit in Suva, Fiji for this "dressed up" dinner.

Project551 - Kimi

2008-09-30T15:32:00.001+10:00

Project551 - Kallen and Ashlee

2008-09-30T14:48:00.002+10:00

Please save the whales for us! Project551 or Pappy's blog.

Project551 - Jaylen

2008-09-30T14:44:00.000+10:00

See project551 or my blog. Save the whales...

Ready to take off

2008-09-24T20:50:00.000+10:00

One, two, three...

Superboys

2008-09-24T20:41:00.002+10:00

What's a couple of sarongs and a large pillow case and three boys can do on a Saturday morning?

Play supermen of course! With Honey's new couch as a take off point... Honey!

Ashlee's Pose: Muscles

2008-09-19T10:36:00.010+10:00

"Look Pappy", says Aiyee, "look at my muscles!"

Here's another pose... he looks like one of those boxers posing before a title fight!

Yes you've guessed it, he loves punching and running around and kicking.

Kallen's Pose: Discovering "pockets"

2008-09-19T10:36:00.006+10:00

Well Kallen just discovered the nice and warm feeling of his hands in his pockets.

Whenever Honey comes over, he will quip: "Honey, look pockets!"

Such simple joys which makes kids "kids". The joy of discovering something pleasant for the first time.

Character Posings

2008-09-19T10:36:00.001+10:00

The boys are pretty much use to me whipping my trusted point and shoot digicam to take their picture. Invariably they would do their pose without being coached, one such picture is above. There is something in their chosen pose that reflects something in their character, or in this stage of their life. I guess they are much more like adults now.

Pizza Boys

2008-09-14T09:21:00.002+10:00

Honey, who loves to cook is training the boys to cook pizza. While not strictly from scratch, at least "assembling" the ingredients from supermarket available items. It would probably have been cheaper to buy from the local Pizza Hut store, but the joys of making the pizza is much more rewarding.

Honey's Pizza:

1 X Bazaar (or equivalent brand) single serve 3 gourmet pizza bases (if not available, try using Lebanese bread)

1 X Coles 500g (or equivalent brand) shredded mozzarella cheese

1 X Ardmona 405g pizza sauce (Tomato paste mixed with ketchup and water will be a good substitute, mix to right pizza sauce consistency.)

Toppings: sliced salami, shredded ham. You can go crazy on this and have pineapple chunks, smoked salmon, cooked shrimps, canned asparagus, anchovies, vegetables, etc. Obviously kids like the basic ham, cheese and pineapple combination.

Follow the instruction on the pizza base package. Otherwise it is just a matter of simply spreading tomato sauce on the pizza base, putting the toppings and lastly; to hold everything together, add the shredded cheese. It does not have to be mozzarella, it could be tasty or what is available. Being inventive is half the fun.

Next, simply preheat oven to 220 centigrade, brush baking tin with vegetable or olive oil and bake the pizza for eight to ten minutes, or until crisp and golden as desired. A good indication is when the cheese is melted! Just make sure you don't over baked as it will burn and leave a nasty taste.

Be as creative by using what is available in your pantry; like at one instance, in a friend's house I saw her kids using slice bread, tomato ketchup, onions, shredded ham and cheese and just using the griller to melt the cheese. Presto!

Other hints and tips:

For extra crispy base, preheat oven to 220 centigrade and lightly grease pizza pan with olive oil.

For a basic pizza crust, brush olive oil on the pizza base and spread with crushed garlic, add herbs if available or desired. Bake in oven for eight minutes or until brown and crispy. Serve with your favourite dip.

Mine is simply with hommus (just your basic cooked and crushed chickpeas, olive oil, sesame seeds paste, garlic, lemon juice, vinegar, salt and sugar to taste in a blender); or even with store bought salsa dip.

Bruschetta, prepare as described above and topped with fresh (de-seeded) diced tomato and spanish onion. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and olive oil.

Add ground pepper or chillies if desired, or to taste (again for adults!)

Enjoy!

Father's Day 2008 and beer glass sizes

2008-09-13T15:18:00.006+10:00

That's my Lowenbrau litre bier glass from the staff of The Bavarian Bier Cafe at Parramatta. It was an unexpected gift and I was thinking of buying a souvenir and this beer glass is the perfect memento.

I have a collection of beer glasses, (mostly schooner size (425 ml) or pints in other states) with logo of the establishment. This is my first litre size beer glass.

It is interesting to note that while in most countries there is only a glass of beer or a mug, Australia, New Zealand and the UK has some interesting names for different beer glass sizes.

There is the glass (or butcher, six, seven or bobby; depending on which state you are in), which is 200 ml. Then the middy (again different in most states or territory) which is 285 ml.

In an article by the University of New South Wales:

"The Australian dialect of English is remarkable for having virtually no regional variation over the entire continent. However, there's one place that regional terminology runs rampant: the Pub. You can always pick a "foreigner" because they come in and ask for a beer using the wrong glass name or the wrong brand (although the big commercial brands are pretty much national nowadays)."

By the way, my Father's Day post is here. I had a great time to say the least... thanks to Rea, my daughter; Honey who claims I am not her father and to the staff of the Bavarian Bier Cafe (a favorite place, beer and coffee!) for the beer glass.

New addiction to...

2008-09-11T14:37:00.007+10:00

... sunflower seeds. Like a bird that needs feeding, Honey is addicted to these sunflower "butong bulaklak" like anything. This one is even coconut flavoured!

I don't know the why and the wherefore, but I was getting addicted to it as well! Imagine sitting in front of the telly with a bagful of these seeds. The only thing with this particular brand and type is that it is not too salty, hence one does not have that sore lips from too much salt much like the Pinoy's local "butong pakwan".

Border security should confiscate these. Help!

Goodbye to ...

2008-09-10T12:52:00.005+10:00

... cold nights.

... heavy winter coats.

... very cold mornings.

... cold morning showers (even with hot water!).

... fireplace (which I don't have at this house) and heaters.

Sleepovers and TV Shows

2008-08-14T16:50:00.006+10:00

Picture taken while one of Jay and Aiyee's friend, Kiara slept over during one of the kids' school holidays.

As usual they are watching TV, but as they get older their taste turns from cartoons to more TV shows reflecting their ages; like High School: The Musical. It just shows how fast these kids grow up.

Jaylen On cooking TV shows: Honey and I usually watches either travel or cooking shows (or lifestyle) on Foxtel cable.

Jaylen: "Honey, why are you watching that (cooking show)?

Honey: "So I can learn how to cook."

Jaylen: "Honey, everytime I watch that it makes me hungry!" And walks away.

Aiyee on the Beijing Olympics: Honey and Aiyee were watching the weightlifting event.

Aiyee: "Honey, what is he doing?"

Honey: "Oh he is lifting the weights."

Aiyee: "Why is he doing that?"

Honey: "So he can get gold medal!"

Aiyee: "I am not going to do that."

Aiyee: "I am just going to do swimming! Like this Honey... " Demonstrating how he would swim.

So there is still hope that one of my grandsons will be in future Olympics, but don't bet on Aiyee will be lifting weights.

Kallen on TV, even while half sleeping.

Kallen: "Look Honey, look!"

Kallen: "Power Rangers Honey... SPD, I want SPD!"

Playing with Nintendo DS

2008-08-13T16:15:00.002+10:00

Isn't Aiyee looks so grown up and cool! What a poser... He is cute though!

Some Saturdays

2008-08-13T14:05:00.005+10:00

Some Saturdays, the boys will spend sometime with us by sleeping over the Friday night. In the morning, we will have our usual cappuccinos, while the boys will have baby chinos, which is just steamed and frothy milk.

Then we will have either eggs and pan de sal or Spanish bread from our favorite Pinoy bakery, Starlight Bakery. But most times the kids love my pancakes, as the case here with Kallen!

Pensive Hood

2008-08-13T13:38:00.006+10:00

Aiyee in his pensive mood, either that or he is already hungry. This is the same day that they went to the museum and we were just waiting for his mom and dad at the King Street Wharf.

I was going to meet up with them at the museum but was "banned" from going. I guess I have this notoriety for spending too much time at the museum. But my daughter said it is their "family time". Good, I was able to spent time around Sydney CBD and shot some photos.

Our shadows, while feeding these pesky sea gulls!

Coke Addicts

2008-08-13T12:55:00.005+10:00

A month ago the kids were treated to their first Australian Museum visit, with the Dinosaurs Just Moved Into Sydney “650 square metre” exhibition. As any other kids, they loved dinosaurs.

After which we met them for lunch at Wagamama at King Street Wharf. That is where the picture above was taken. The kids just guzzling their cokes served in this retro coke bottles.

After lunch, we went into Darling Harbour for a walk, ice creams and mini-train rides. What a day...

Goodbye Amy...

2008-08-04T11:21:00.006+10:00

I received the following email (see below) and the above flyer yesterday.

I last saw Amy in our last high school reunion in San Diego in 2006. She looks fine and bubbly and news from the grapevine is that she is recuperating and in remission from breast cancer. I did not spoke or talk about it. The important thing was that she was there, obviously happy to see her classmates. To me, that is all that matters...

So how do we cope when someone we know, someone we love, someone we are close to pass on to the "great divide"? Obviously we feel sad and regretful of what could have been. We could have spent more time, laugh more and shared life more. Death and mortality teaches us that. When the end (at least in this life, as we know it!) is near, when we felt near death or have had a brushed with death; life becomes more fuller and colourful. When our lives passed before us in that single instant, we tend to take stock of our lives and focus on what we want our lives to be. What we want to cross out in our "bucket list"... what we want to accomplish and experience.

Amy, (far right with glasses) seated beside Noi at the last reunion. Photo courtesy of Maria.

So Amy's death (and the death of so many friends and relatives), teaches us to "seize the day" everyday. Carpe diem!

Edna's email:

"Hello Batch Mates,

It has been a week since we met our batch mates and friends, when we paid our last respects to Amy. We shared our love and grief with one another. The following were present: Janet, Beth, Ruby and husband, Lota, Jean, Virginia and husband, Kim and Ben, Butch and wife, Ver, Alan Bravo and wife, and Chato de Castro. (My apologies to some that I probably missed).

Memorial service is a time for mourning but we know in our heart that this is also time of joy. Amy ran the race, and fought the fight. Now she is resting with the Lord and will receive her crown of glory from the Savior that she loved and served.

We learned from listening to her family and close friends that her battle with pain and illness is over. We know that she is now in a better place. We know that she is finally at rest after a long time of battling sickness.

After the memorial service, some of our batch mates went to Chow King to continue our catching up on how each other were doing; because we know that after we separated from each other who knows when we will have the time to see each other and sit down and talk.

We decided that we need to keep in touch more often on better circumstance. Our first OCNHS Batch 74 get together will be on September 20, 2008. We just want to sit down and talk awhile, and also to set aside this time in memory of Amy."

I know how "busy" your lives are, with work and family commitments. We only ask that you spent this day, 20 September 2008; with us. Take a leave of absence from whatever you are doing, rest and recharge with your batch mates and friends... and finally say goodbye to Amy!

SYD WYD 2008: In the Eyes of the Pilgrims (Irene)

2008-07-21T20:19:00.005+10:00

Hi Nanette,

Thanks so much for sharing your SYD WYD 2008 experience. I am so envious with you and Irene and all our brethren and sisters who were and are fortunate to experience this WYD 08 (even if are no longer "Youthful", but I am sure very youthful inside!).

Irene and workmates were at the crowd of well wishers at the parade yesterday as well. Funny, they were testing their mobile phone cameras so they can take a photo of the Pope and the Pope mobile as it passes. She said all you can see are the myriad hands with cameras and what not. When the Pope mobile whizzed thru, no one in their contingent managed to get a picture. It was that fast! I think I got a better view on the news on TV. I guess being there; the experience would be totally different....

Mar

----------------------

The Three Sisters with the Pope

Auntie Chit messaged (SMS) my wife if she wants to come to the Sunday mass of the SYD WYD 2008 at Randwick. She said she could get extra tickets as she was a "homestay" host. At first she was lukewarm to the idea, as they were not on speaking terms. I told my wife that this might be the her way of making up with her. She relented and called her back. They spoke of Auntie Chit's recent travel to the Philippines and she said it would be good for them to go to this mass. Especially since the Pope would be celebrating.

So last Sunday, together with their other sister, they met up at Central and trekked by foot to Randwick to join the more that 400,000 pilgrims. Although the walk was pleasant enough, it took them more than an hour to get there. From what my wife tells me, it seems that the whole "ordeal" was an experience she could not forget.

According to her, there was this eerie spirituality with the whole experience. A pilgrimage of sorts with her two other sisters, as if they were being egged on by their late mother: to forget past differences and hear the Pope's message in this historical ode to young Catholics. I am sure the more than 12 hours makes up for the past conflict they had. Her mother, I am so sure; is only too glad to see her three daughters on this pilgrimage!

SYD WYD 2008: In the Eyes of the Pilgrims (Nanette)

2008-07-21T19:37:00.007+10:00

"The Papal Boat", part of the Papal boat-a-cade. Photo courtesy of Manny Placido.

"Hi Mar and Irene,

I joined the many pilgrims yesterday to see the Pope. It was just a fantastic experience to just be there amongst the crowd. To see so many young people have the kind of faith that they have is very uplifting. It makes you think that "Hey, the next generation will be in safe hands after all".

I went with my friend Lorna. We had tickets that got us inside Barangaroo. We were supposed to go to Gate 1 which was at the end of Kent Street at the Rocks. It should not really have been a long walk but because we did not know where the entrance to each gate was, we ended up taking the longest route passing through all the gates, ie. from Gate 25 (I think) down to Gate 1.

Nonetheless it was a pleasant walk, as we were greeted warmly by the many volunteers. Along the way, we met friends who were actually volunteers. There was actually one volunteer who told Lorna and me, "You are nearly there..." I told Lorna, "We must look very tired to her". :)

We walked with the pilgrims who were singing songs, cheering and chanting. How I wished I knew the songs.

When we reached our designated area which was Gate 1, Area A, Section 7, we saw a Filipino contingent. Lorna and I went across to them and spoke to a group of young boys aged 16 and over. They were calling us Titas (Aunties) and were telling us their experiences so far. How they are feeling the cold and how they did not know initially where they were going to stay as the school they were billeted had double bookings. So from Bossley Park, they were moved to Meadowbank. Some members of the group were asleep but the boys we were talking to were very jovial. You knew that they were happy to be part of such a momentous event.

I was told that the Philippines had 2700 delegates to WYD, bigger than the number of delegates from the rest of the Asian countries combined. The Cross, I was told, originated from UST and that the Pope mobile was made in the Philippines. At least this was what my Tita Pat said.

The crowd, arriving at Barangaroo, got bigger and bigger. Being young, they were noisy but you can say it was a happy, friendly noise if you know what I mean. There were nuns (some looked really young) and priests (good looking ones I must say).

With the crowds increasing, Lorna and I were worried about not being able to quickly get out when the Pope leaves so we decided to leave the area even before the Pope arrived and find a good vantage point instead. And we did found one at Argyle Road, atop Hickson Road.

From there we could see the stage, the big screens and heard the songs, etc. There was a big crowd where we were too, mostly office workers in the area, police, children with their mums, young adults and many more.

When the Pope arrived, everyone cheered and though we may have been in a different area, we knew that we were one with the crowd. We participated in the prayers, in the singing, in everything.

I may have switched off a bit when the Pope was delivering his speech as I could not hear some parts. When the Pope blessed the crowd, you have this feeling that you were really among those people blessed.

We knew the Pope was going on his Pope mobile along George St, but from where we were standing, Lorna and I really did not know where to go. We just decided to go to George St from Argyle St. Lorna had a bit of a sore leg so in my attempt to get to George St, I ran as I've never run before and in doing so, I unintentionally left Lorna behind. And you know what, just as we reached the end, the Pope passed. I thought that was amazing and I was waving like a lunatic.

Believe it or not, the Pope mobile was speeding (no speeding tickets issued though) but I think it was because they were behind schedule. It was a fantastic experience and I am just glad I was part of it.

I saw Pope John Paul when he was in Sydney. I don't remember what year that was but I was working in North Sydney then. He was in the Pope mobile and I saw him from our office window. Though I may have been far, you still felt his presence. I guess Pope John Paul had a special aura about him.

Anyway, I consider myself blessed that I got to see them both right here in Sydney!"

:) Nanette

(Barangaroo is located in East Darling Harbour, to read the full text of the Pope's speech, click here.)

SYD WYD 2008: In the Eyes of the Pilgrims (Manny)

2008-07-21T19:10:00.006+10:00

From the Matilda, "Approaching Barangaroo". Photo courtesy of Manny Placido.

"Hi All,

Firstly, Sis Nanette's account below captured it all.

Secondly, what I forgot to tell you beforehand is that, as home stay hosts, your Sis Dodo and I were selected to be part of the flotilla accompanying the Papal boat on the Papal boat-a-cade.

Amongst an escort of about 10 big boats (plus a big collection of smaller boats and police jet-skis), we were at the Matilda yesterday. At the Matilda, we found Bro Dan and Sis Amy on the upper deck with some friends.

We also saw Chito and Pilar Perez.

On the way to the bridge, the sun is right in front of us so it's difficult to take (good) pictures - but here's some (see above picture) taken using Rosanna's camera. Your Sis Dodo has taken more (and perhaps better) pics with her camera."

Manny

----------------

Thanks Bro Manny for the pictures, especially sharing your experiences at the boat-a-cade!

Also I have to mention that aside from you guys, Bro Jack and Sis Elvie Sta Maria are also hosting some pilgrims. I believe their "pilgrims" are from Italy.

Sweet!

2008-07-13T21:40:00.003+10:00

My sweet tooth got the better of me. Mom made me banana and sweet potato (kamote) in sugar syrup. Served hot with cold milk, brought back childhood memories.

Marlo at Three (I Think!)

2008-07-06T14:49:00.004+10:00

That's Pappy at, I think at three years old. Does he look like Aiyee?

Marlo is what my family calls me or "Pappy" by my three grandsons.

Huggable Kallen

2008-07-06T13:23:00.003+10:00

Don't you just love these cute t-shirts: "I'm A Hug Waiting To Happen!"

My Honey is on Facebook

2008-07-06T12:41:00.004+10:00

Finally, my honey is on Facebook and networking!

That is the photo she chose for her Facebook site, taken on a P&O cruise last February 2008. She's wearing one those Indian (Hindu) traditional dress bought when we visited Fiji. A friend, Odeng, and her bought a dress (with pants, and not a Sari) each to wear on one of the formal nights on board the cruise ship Pacific Dawn. Well, as expected they were a hit.

Aiyee Soccer Picture

2008-07-05T14:47:00.004+10:00

I think Aiyee is more handsome, after all he looks more like his Pappy!

Just kidding Jay...

Jaylen Soccer Picture

2008-07-05T14:30:00.004+10:00

Just showing off this handsome picture of Jay. He looks like his dad.

Journey of Faith: SYD-WYD 2008

2008-07-04T12:38:00.006+10:00

In less than a fortnight, Sydney will be transformed by the hundreds of thousands of young pilgrims participating in discovering and rediscovering their Christian faith in Sydney's World Youth Day 2008. The SYD WYD 2008 (click for my previous blog!) will be held from 15 to 20 July at the Randwick race horse tracks and other various Sydney venues.

My friend, Nanette and Bob just picked up a distant niece from the airport the other day. One of the many thousands of young men and women on the pilgrimage. Her name is Ina, from San Francisco, California. Together with another fifteen youngsters, they flew to Adelaide (what a fitting place, the "city of churches") this morning spending time on outback Australia: "... experiencing God in the outback as she (Ina) puts it."

According to Nanette, "She (Ina) has a bubbly personality and gets along well with Nicole and Mikey. Last night, they spent hours just talking.. in Mikey's room... and practicing her Australian accent on them. Nicole told her she needs more practice. She cracks up at all of Nicole's jokes."

Ina's mom emailed her the following, with the title: "Trust in the Lord Jesus"

"Tomorrow you will be joining a pilgrim. It's a journey together with some of the students where you will travel OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE. You will walk for miles and miles to reach your destination in search of God's LOVE and MERCY. You will experience a once in a lifetime journey in search of the TRUTH. The truth that there is GOD. Whatever hardships you encounter along the way, trust that GOD is with you and has always been ever since you were born. He will be with you along the way. Trust in the Lord Jesus.

Love,

Mom"

(Photo credit, MJB - taken at Glebe's St James Catholic Church, love Sydney's sandstones in most heritage buildings and churches.)

Get Well Maxine!

2008-06-12T17:05:00.007+10:00

(Photo courtesy of itsosuruh's Flick'r site.)

This is Maxine a year ago at her 19th birthday.

She does not know me, but I know her namesake: Dad and Bro Max Bravo. Father to our DeMolay brother and father of Maxine, Dave Allan (DAZB)

She's twenty now and is suffering from seizures brought about by a viral infection.

The doctors are doing their job to cure her and we can only pray for her and her family for strength and guidance. Pray that she will recover from this illness, that her family and friends be blessed for keeping her in their prayers. Most of all, for their support to keep Maxine well.

We know prayers work:

My grandson, Jaylen, who suffered from leukemia two years ago and is well now.

Another friend of ours, Eric, suffered from aneurism, been comatose, put under induced coma and now can walk and talk a bit. He is still in the hospital, but this is a great improvement from coma and aneurism. We just visited him the other night and he can even recognised us and communicate by hand signals.

We hope and pray that God give His grace and blessings to Maxine as well.

Happy Birthday Nanay: 3 June

2008-06-03T18:25:00.003+10:00

Today is also my Nanay's birthday, her 89th birthday. Jaylen shares her birthday, June 3.

May and June are busy months for us, in terms of birthdays.

Starting with my sister Olay on May 5, my late father-in-law on May 20, my elder sister, Ate Mae on May 21, May 27 for my brother-in-law, Jun, then Aiyee on the 30th of May.

June 2 is my brother-in-law's birthday, Kuya Chito and June 3 is my mother and Jaylen's birthdays. June 4 is Ate Zeny, my other sister-in-law and June 5, my sister's Wiws birthday.

So these two months are quite busy, lots of parties to go to.

Come next year would be a big birthday party for my Nanay Olive, she will turn 90 years old.

I am just wondering what I can give as a present to a 90 year old mother?

I have another year to think...

Jaylen Turning Lucky 7

2008-06-02T20:49:00.002+10:00

Seven must really be a lucky number. Especially for our Jaylen who is turning seven tomorrow.

So on Saturday, 7 June there will be a special birthday party and thanksgiving celebration. If you are in the area please drop by to wish him well!

I am five now Honey! Ashlee

2008-05-30T15:34:00.007+10:00

This is what my Ashlee said to Honey when she phoned him this morning to say Happy Birthday!

My small look-alike (poor boy!!) turned five today. Kids like to be older, while we want to get younger. Crazy world isn't it? But kids, like any other kids like birthdays, especially if its theirs. Do you think it has something to do with lots of presents? Your guess is as good as mine!

Aiyee, as I fondly calls him, loves the colour blue. Good thing that his soccer team sports the same colour, shown above photo taken a few weeks ago. His first goal: on the opponents' goal. This "competition" is more on kids having fun and building skills at the same time. The parents are more aware of winning and loosing, and everybody is a coach on the sidelines. Aiyee take all these "coaching" in stride. "Aiyee, do something!" his mom shouted at one time, only to be reproached by the coach: "He is running and doing something!"

At five, what does Aiyee wants? I think he wants more of those toys shown on tv. He always makes it a point to let me know that he wants so and so toy when advertised on tv... sort of "wink.. wink Pappy... my birthday is coming" and you know what I want.

I think I'll buy him whatever he wants, his turning five anyway.

Australia's Biggest Morning Tea: 24 May

2008-05-16T13:33:00.006+10:00

Hello, I just registered for this fund raising event and I am hoping that you'll support me on this endeavour.

The official Australia's Biggest Morning Tea is on Thursday, 22 May 2008.

We will have a fundraiser at work this Thursday, but I am organising a similar fundraising at the Pole Depot, Saturday following the 22nd, which is on the 24th of May.

If you are in the area at TAFE Meadowbank, the TAFE's Australia's Biggest Morning Tea is at building P function room (Canteen), See Street, Meadowbank (NSW, Australia), from 9:30 AM till 12:00 PM. Donation at the entrance. Please drop by and have tea with us.

My one is at Pole Depot, 23 St Georges Road, Penshurst (NSW, Australia), from 10:00 AM to 12:00 Noon, Saturday, 24 May 2008.

Most of you are very fortunate by not being personally afflicted by cancer. For us, we have been unfortunately "tagged" by cancer. Fortunately for us and for our grandson Jaylen, leukemia (ALL) has an 80% chance of survival. We are one of those 80% lucky ones.

While there are more pressing issues around the world (like world hunger, the environment and recently the devastations in Burma and China caused by natural events), we tend to support those close to our hearts, those that have touched us.

The cure for various cancers, while a dream for now, is one of the "holy grails" in the medical field. We need more funding for research to combat this ailment. This is what The Cancer Council is doing every 22nd May, to not only raise awareness but also raise the needed funds for various research.

If you wish to donate please click here, or if you wish to donate in your locality, just Google cancer society or council in your country.

Thank you so much for your time and generosity; and hope to see you in our Biggest Morning Tea!

Mother's Day: 11 May

2008-05-09T12:58:00.004+10:00

Happy Mother's Day to all the Mothers out there!

I chose the above photo to illustrate what mothers are like. They are, for the most part, our rock - where all our dreams and hopes are anchored on. While they are hard in some ways to bring us into this world, you'll see that they - as the ebb and tides continue to pound her, are also shaped and reshaped by their children's love.

I always remember the "Flower Talk" of my youth:

"... dedicated to our mothers, whose love never fails. You may rise to positions of great influence in commercial, political, or professional life, but you can never reach the heights of your mother's secret hopes for you. You may sink into the lowest depths of infamy and degradation, but never below the reach of her love. The memory of it will always stir your heart. There is no man so entirely base, so completely vile, so utterly low, that he does not hold in his heart a shrine sacred and apart for the memory of his mother's love.

"Were I to draw you a picture of love divine,
it would not be that of a stately Angel,
With a form that is full of grace.
But a tired and toil worn mother
With a grave and tender face."

It was your mother who loved you before you were born--who carried you for long months close to her heart and in the fullness of time took God's hand in hers and passed through the valley of shadows to give you life. It was she who cared for you during the helpless years of infancy and the scarcely less dependent years of childhood. As you have grown less dependent, she has done the countless, thoughtful, trouble-healing, helpful and encouraging things which somehow only mothers seem to know how to do. You may have accepted these attentions more or less as matters of course, and perhaps without conscious gratitude or any expression of your appreciation.

You are rapidly approaching the time in life when you will be entirely independent of your mother. The ties with which dependency has bound you to her may be severed as you grow older, but the tie of mother-love can never be broken.

Thinking back upon the years of your life when you have reached the threshold of manhood, your mother might well say in the words of the poet:

"My body fed your body, son,
But birth's a swift thing
Compared to one and twenty years
Of feeding you with spirit's tears.
I could not make your mind and soul,
But my glad hands have kept you whole.
Your groping hands Bound me to life with ruthless bands.
And all my living became a prayer,
While all my days built up a stair
For your young feet that trod behind
That you an aspiring way should find.
Think you that life can give you pain
Which does not stab in me again?
Think you that life can give you shame
Which does not make my pride go lame?
And you can do no evil thing
Which sears not me with poisoned sting.
Because of all that I have done,
Remember me in life, O son.
Keep that proud body fine and fair.
My life is monumented there.
For my life make no woman weep,
For my life hold no woman cheap.
And see you give no woman scorn
For that dark night when you were born."

"Far in the dim recesses of her heart
Where all is hushed and still,
She keeps a shrine.
'Tis here she kneels in prayer
While from above long shafts of light upon her shine.
Her heart is flower fragrant as she prays.
Aquiver like a candle flame,
Each prayer takes wing
To bless the world she works among,
To leave the radiance of the candles there."

Happy Birthday Olay: 5 May

2008-05-09T12:00:00.004+10:00

Well, I did not forget. I must admit I am just a bit lazy to call ot text. I am sorry. Monday was my youngest sister's birthday. can't forget even if I wanted to, you see we have this great birthdays. I don't know how my Nanay and Dy (Mom and Dad) did the dates:

My Nanay was born June 3 and I was born January 3.

My Dy's birthday is November 21 and my elder sister, Mae is May 21.

My two younger sisters: Wiw's birthday is June 5, while Olay is May 5!

My other half siblings birthdays are a bit off: July 28 for Ate Aida and February 14 for my Kuya Danny,but see multiply 14 by two equals?

My other two half siblings: Jay and Joy (I am not kidding, those are their names), unfortunately I don't know their birthdays. But hey, they got this sort of Ying-Yang names. That must count for something.

So all these wonderful numbers are weaved into our so-called birthdays. I have not seen or heard anything like this in any other family. We're freaks of nature or was it just a coincidence.

Anyway, Happy Birthday again Olay! Here's hoping and praying that you have more to come.

By the way the flowers are for you.

Phases of Life 4: Wake Up Eric!

2008-04-29T09:59:00.006+10:00

Eric is just 45 years old and is in an induced coma. He was, since Monday when he suffered aneurism at work and was rushed to Westmead Hospital. He regained conciousness the next day, was promptly operated on and was put in an induced coma to stabilize his condition. He is still in ICU at Westmead.

We are praying for him at this stage, as science has done its job. His wife and children misses him. His brothers here in Australia and parents in the Philippines and countless relatives and friends in both countries are praying for him.

Praying that Eric will survive and surmount this "test" and the will of God; whatever that may be, "Be Done". It is not wishful thinking, but a cry for help, for strenght and guidance.

Our healing prayers for Eric. For Chona and their children and for Bubot and Sonny and their parents; our prayers for strenght in this very difficult time.

This April 2008, as the month is drawing to a close, Eric's "slice of life" - a phase in any one's life managed to just pipped in. I was only planning for three stories: a child celebrating his second bithday, a mother celebrating her 100th birthday and a friend who just died of cancer. Now, Eric, another friend - a fourth phase of life, hanging on to dear life.

(Just in case you're wondering what the picture is all about, it is stripped copper wires that we recycle. Eric and I are both into electronics, and that is the connection. Life, like these copper wires are inter-connected and inter-mingled - and like life we are recycled to that great beyond!)

Phases of Life 1: Goodbye Bing

2008-04-28T20:36:00.005+10:00

We said goodbye to one of our friends and kumare this early part of April.

Mareng Bing died from cancer at 54. She is one of our first friends when we first came here in Sydney. Although we have not seen each other often or as often as we would like to, we managed to see her now and again. We visited her as well at the hospital before she died.

It was an eye opening experience for us, too close for "comfort". When we saw her at Prince Alfred Hospital, we spoke about a lot of things. But what caught our attention is her regret for working too hard and not taking time to enjoy herself. I guess, regrets are always at the end of one's life. When all is ending or about to end, we have the time to ponder on things that we should have done: the what ifs of life.

This reminded me once more of a tattoo a young friend of my daughter and son-in-law had. Clinton has tattooed "Carpe Diem" on his arm in big bold letters. A very popular phrase from a Latin poem by Horace; which literally translates to "seize the day".

Wikipedia says: "The most common interpretation of the phrase is as an existential cautionary term with emphasis on making the most of current opportunities because life is short and time is fleeting." An admonition that we should do the things we want or enjoy doing, whether spending time with our loved ones and friends or finding that passion in our lives before it's too late.

In the past few years, Bing went home to Dumaguete City and build a house for her to retire, with partner Michael and her mom. She was looking forward to spent more vacation time in her new home, with her siblings and relatives.

The mass at the Catholic Chapel at Rookwood Cemetery Crematorium (the biggest Necropolis in the Southern Hemisphere) was well attended considering that it was a weekday. Bing's friends took the time to say their final goodbyes. She might have some regrets in the end, but I think and believe she did good by the amount of friends that said goodbye and visited her in the hospital.

Bing was cremated as she wished and her ashes will be flown back by Mamang and Ted back to Dumaguete City.

So goodbye Bing and it's been a privilege and joy knowing you!

(Moderator's notes: "Kumare"; (Comadre) literally means co-mother or co-parent, a "relationship between the parents and godparents of a child common in most Latin communities. "Mamang" is a term for mother.)

Phases of Life 2: Century Milestone

2008-04-28T20:17:00.007+10:00

Photo shows my Nanay on the left, with the celebrant Nanay Cion.

I believe this is my first 100th birthday party that I've attended, and I just turned fifty!

Which means, either I don't have too many friends who have their parents or grandparents turning 100 years old or I wasn't just invited for being "too young"... heheheeee.

My friend Tony's mom, Mrs Maria Resureccion Hernandez or Nanay Cion for short, celebrated her 100th birthday the other week. She even got all these congratulatory letters from the Queen herself, HRH Queen Elizabeth; The NSW Governor and the NSW Premier and Australian Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd. How cool was that?

I remembered several things from this party, aside from the food and drinks and the fellowship.

I vividly remember and was impressed with the retelling of the story of Nanay Cion's life. Compressed into an hour's worth of presentation; as narrated by son, Tony. What a colourful life of courage and determination. Of a love story coming into fruition. Of sons and daughters coming over from different parts of the world to celebrate her centenary.

You must be wondering what was the second one was. Was it the food and the company? The speeches... not really but the odd request of the celebrant to have a gay stand up comic! So enters Ursula Diva, the Queen of Comedy, as Corregidor Entertainment Centre and Restaurant bills "The Queen". She's funny in a Pinoy sense, and was entertaining enough to keep us awake.

I do hope that Tony, who is a phenomenal writer, would put into a blog his mother's story complete with the illustrations reportedly done by his brother. It makes good reading and chronicle on the net his mother's story.

Happy Birthday Nanay Cion. I hope I will be as lucky and as sharp as you when I turn 100!

Phases of Life 3: Kallen Turns Two

2008-04-28T19:49:00.009+10:00

Kallen can sing Happy Birthday before he even turned two.

One day while I was driving him to his Popo's house, I heard him singing "Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you...." I was wondering who taught him that. But I later found out that he has this penchant for singing.

He loves Alicia Key's No One, and I am not kidding nor exaggerating. He even loves it with the music video, hence I downloaded both the original music video and a live one she sung at Good Morning America in New York. His Honey even downloaded the ringtone and Kallen always (I mean always!) asks his Honey to play back the ringtone for him. He also loves Hi-5 and Wiggles as any young person would.

Back to his birthday, he turned two this month and got; as always plenty of toys. The biggest of which is a medium size (as opposed to the "normal" size jumping castle that one can hire) "jumping castle" complete with a slide. It was a "bargain" at AUD299.00, or so my daughter tells me and she justified it by saying that she won't hire another one. That is till this one breaks!

This birthday is a special for him as well as for us. Special for Kallen since he knows how to sing the birthday song, blow out his candles (with an "S") and he sort of can enjoy his special day and play with the kids. He was also surprised by his siblings (with the help of mom and dad), with baloons when he woke up on his birthday! He was thrilled, as he loves baloons and balls.

For the grown ups, it was special seeing him so happy with the gifts. Plus of course all the food and drinks consumed!

("Popo" grandmother in Indonesian and Chinese.)

My Small Contribution to the World's Greatest Shave

2008-03-18T20:42:00.005+11:00

With my new "no hair-do" and my three boys.

As promised in my other blog, this is the proof that I did participated in the World's Greatest Shave 2008: A Leukaemia Foundation fund raising.

This is my "small" contribution, as cheekily pointed out by my daughter (Dad, what are you sacrificing?). But a couple of ounces of hair is a lot of commitment from a middle age person like me. It took me months to grow that hair!

Thanks to all who pledged and contributed/donated to this fund raising. We really do appreciate your financial commitment to this cause very close to our hearts.

I almost forgot to thank my son-in-law, Charles for the hair cut. Thanks Charlie!

Cruising The South Pacific: 13 Days in February

2008-03-18T19:52:00.007+11:00

For the most part of our first three days at sea, above is only one of the many "shapes and sizes" you see of the sea, aside from the horizon. Just sea water churning at the turn of the ship's propellers.

As this is our first leisure cruise, it did take our curiosity and the anticipation of seeing new places and the "post card" beaches and islands in the South Pacific.

At first you obviously need to get into the pitching and rolling of the ship, P & O's first superliner, The Pacific Dawn. Some people get used to it and some requires medication. But as the ship's nears its destination, the sea becomes calmer and your body becomes accustomed to the ship's motion.

The hardest part of the trip is really keeping as far away from the buffet tables and dining areas!

One of the millions of photos we (or one of our friends took of us) took, "Out at Sea".

I Got "Tagged" on Australia Day

2008-01-27T00:37:00.002+11:00

You know how bloggers and video bloggers get tagged. You tell your readers 5 , ten or more things about you... personal things that they obviously they don't know about you. The tagging goes round and round.

In my case, I was a "victim" of a surprised birthday party. It was a pleasant surprise for it was my 50th birthday (one) party, orchestrated by my wife Irene (two) and daughter Rea (three). Like tagging, surprise parties gets around and the older you get the more probable that you'll be the lucky recepient of one.

I knew something was up. Just my 3rd eye or sixth sense (four), nothing seems normal in the last couple of weeks. But I think I played along and wished deep in my heart that someone would organise a surprise party for me, hey I am getting old.

The only thing is, and this an issue I have with my mom; I was born too close to New Year (five) (I won't mention the exact date for fear of identity theft!). Anybody who was born close to Christmas or New Year knows that your loved ones and relatives and friends try to just give you one gift for both occassions. When I was young, it pisses me off to no end, as a kid you wanted more toys to play with or more money to spend (six). That is why a birthday surprise party on the 26th is a bit too late; or so I thought!

To my amazement (seven, I still get amazed!), turning 50 does not insulate you from excitement and delight (eight, still feels those too). I was so happy (nine, these simple things still make me happy, I am still alive!)and felt so blessed (ten, who wouldn't felt blessed!).

A big thank you to my honey, Irene; daughter, Rea; son-in-law, Charles and the rest of the Utan, Baylon, Mendoza, Mucio, Villena and Apacionado clans!

Happy Birthday Honey!

2008-01-25T23:16:00.000+11:00

Honey's flowers from work.

Well, it happens to us every year, another birthday.

But this year, Honey received the best ever gift of her life... so it's not another birthday for her, or for us.

A few days ago Jaylen had his test, and today, Professor Glenn Marshall, Director of Centre for Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders, Sydney Children's Hospital (SCH); called to say that all indications from the tests are fine and there's nothing to worry about.

Mr December 2007: Leukaemia Foundation's "Nude Nuts" Calendar. See note below. (Photo by Charles).

So now it is official, Jaylen is cured! Obviously there is a chance for a relapse but we don't want to think that far ahead. We just want to savour this time and take things as it comes. There is no point worrying and fretting, and living nervously of what might lie ahead: it might or might not happen. For now, we will enjoy this triumph - full stop!

So a big "Thank You" to God and all our friends and relatives who prayed, gave support and wish us and Jay well. It worked! Thanks also to the staff at (especially at C2/C3 West, and Prof Marshall and his staff) at Sydney Children's Hospital.

Going back to Honey's birthday, a good friend of ours, Helene O moved to Queensland but managed to give Honey a surprise the other day. She knew that Honey would attend a training today; her birthday, so Helene arranged for another co-worker, Neola to decked Honey's desk with birthday banners and decorations yesterday: just to "remind" her of her advancing years. Thanks ladies for the effort and the flowers.

Tonight we just celebrated at home with a simple dinner and champagne, with three small kids and just the four of us adults, restaurants and sit down dinners does not work! But all the same, we are so happy just to have a get-together, knowing that we are all healthy and well.

The boys' present to Honey: they are sleeping over! That's why I am blogging...

Note: Just in case you did not bought one of these fund raising calendars, you can still make a donation to either the Sydney Children's Hospital or the Leukaemia Foundation.

The caption is a bit small, it reads: "Hi, my name is Jaylen, and I am five years old. When I was very sick, my hair was falling out and I didn't like it. But then my daddy, all my uncles and both my grandpas' hair fell out too. And they told me if I kept smiling, all of our hair will grow back. I think it's working for everybody except for my grandpas."

We will keep on smiling!

Make A Wish... Gold Coast Vacation

2008-01-25T22:06:00.000+11:00

Jay checking out the limo.

The boys on their first limo ride to the airport.

Well, it finally happened, the Utan family had their first holiday in more than two years courtesy of the Starlight Foundation's Wishgranting program. Luckily for the family, the "wish" granted was for the whole family, a six-day all expenses paid trip to the Gold Coast. That means all free entries to the Dreamworld, White Water World, Wet n' Wild, Sea World, and Warner Brothers' Movie World.

The boys at the airport waiting for their Jet Star flight.

There are so many highlights and so many wonderful pictures. So I would post a couple of them here in the next couple of days or weeks!

Aiyee: Photographer & Future Director

2008-01-12T15:12:00.000+11:00

That's my future pro photographer or videographer!

These pictures were taken at Jay's 2007 Christmas Carols.

Kallen checking out the Christmas tree and eyeing the Christmas ball.

Aiyee and Jay has this penchant for taking pictures and at times holding and pointing their mum's digicam. Thank God for the digital cameras, all you need is a fresh re-charged digital camera. No films to develop, let alone batteries to buy. Most cameras have rechargeables lithium-ion batteries.

Jay with Dane, while waiting for their turn to perform.

I am considering buying Aiyee and Jay their own digital cameras. They've managed to "destroy" my old Olympus and their mum's Canon. Good thing the Olympus was still on extended warranty. While I managed to fix the Canon one.

Walking down from the stage, just after a good performance.

They are going to Queensland tomorrow for a six-day holiday at the Gold Coast. Maybe this is the best time to buy these boys their own digicam. We'll see...

Update 14 January: I did bought the kids a Samsung S630 A$97.00 digi cam special (JB HiFi)for them to share. So I will post their pictures here when they get back from holidays.

No One as Sung by Alicia Keys

2008-01-12T11:54:00.001+11:00

I just want you close

Where you can stay forever

You can be sure

That it will only get better

You and me together

Through the days and nights

I dont worry cause

Everythings gonna be alright

People keep talking

They can say what they like

But all I know is everything's gonna be alright

No one no one no one

Can get in the way of what I'm feeling

No one no one no one

Can get in the way of what I feel for you

You you

Can get in the way of what I feel for you

When the rain is pouring down

And my heart is hurting

You will always be around

This I know for certain

You and me together

Through the days and nights

I dont worry cause

Everythings gonna be alright

People keep talking

They can say what they like

But all I know is everything's gonna be alright

No one no one no one

Can get in the way of what I'm feeling

No one no one no one

Can get in the way of what I feel for you

You you

Can get in the way of what I feel for you

I know some people search the world

To find something like what we have

I know people will try

Try to divideSomething so real

So till the end of time

Im telling you that

No one no one no one

Can get in the way of what I'm feeling

No one no one no one

Can get in the way of what I feel for you

Oh oh oh....

[No One lyrics found on http://www.completealbumlyrics.com/ ] Click for video here.

Kallen Malling: Live & Enjoy Life!

2007-12-06T12:40:00.000+11:00

"Work like you don't need the money.

Love like you've never been hurt.

Dance like nobody's watching.

Sing like nobody's listening.

Live like it's Heaven on Earth.

Live life to the fullest.

Enjoy life..."

Anon.

Becks in Town

2007-11-27T11:51:00.002+11:00

If you are a football fan, you know straightaway who I am talking about. It's David Beckham, the football star. I am not really a big football or soccer fan. I easily get bored with how long they score, so the highlight of any game is good enough for me. And I am not a big fan of that Spice Girl turned Mrs Beckham either... what's her name?

What caught my attention was the article in The Sydney Morning Herald (26 November 2007, pages 2 and 3 of the Sport section):

"Do you know you made some kids with cancer cry this morning, David?

"Never mind jet lag from a 22-hour journey from London via China, David Beckham suddenly didn't know what day it was. "Welcome to Australia...

"Mustering an eloquence that betrayed his fatigue, and a few of his responses, Beckham told his Channel Seven assailant he hadn't seen any children he was supposed to meet at LA Galaxy's team hotel since stepping off his private jet about, oh, 12 minutes ago.

""That's one thing [ignoring fans] I would never have done, never have done and never will do. That's not me," he pleaded.

"... his manager immediately assured Channel Seven the misunderstanding would be cleared up and that Beckham was to meet the children, including 14-year old leukaemia survivor Emma Byers, at last night's Sydney FC game."

That's a very nice gesture from David Beckham and his management team. This is a guy who makes, reportedly; $1 million a week!

Now comes my "whining"... my grandson, Jaylen, who survived ALL leukaemia requested The Starlight Children's Foundation to meet the Umbilical Brothers. Not a biggie as meeting David Beckham or any footie star or even a trip to Disneyland. But apparently the Umbilical Brothers are "too busy" for almost a year now to "ignore" that request. Up to now, there's no respond and the bros are apparently "busy". Jaylen even outgrown them now and are now into other interests as all other boys his age.

I guess it's the Umbilical Brothers' loss not Jaylen's. The great thing is, Starlight is so embarrassed by all this they offered Jaylen's family a trip to the Gold Coast as early as January 2008. You see, all things happen for a reason, good reasons. I am sure Jaylen and his brothers would love that trip rather than meeting second rate comedians. I hope the Umbilical Brothers learn a thing or two from a star who makes $1 million a week!

While Beckham may not heal some kids, he will make some kids happy for the rest of their lives. Good on you David!

Jaylen's ALL Two Year Anniversary

2007-11-24T12:58:00.000+11:00

You've guessed by now that we have a penchant for Lindt Chocolate Cake. We have a sweet tooth. Rea even bought this Chocolate covered strawberry lollies from Country Road today. This is Charle's birthday cake and a bottle of Moscato.

We were at my grandsons' home yesterday for dinner, as we missed Charles birthday the other day(we weren't invited :( ). It's good to celebrate on a Friday though, one can drink and stay up as late as it is not a working day the next day.

But Honey, as she always does have an elephant's memory; remembered something else. It's always at the back of her mind that yesterday was a day we should have remembered. And it dawned on her that it was the day that Jaylen was diagnosed with ALL or the dreaded leukaemia.

That was two years ago, and we are happy to say that Jaylen is going well and have another month for his maintenance medicines. All his tests are good.

While this day is something that we would rather forget, in a way this day was a Thanksgiving day for us for the last year or so. Jaylen was declared on the mend since last year and has been taking his maintenance medication for the last one and half years. Another month to go and as Jaylen always declares: he has a new life. He said this when his port was taken off a year ago.

Whenever he goes back for treatment or when he has a fever (a sign of an incoming infection), he woul declare when his needle are taken out: "Welcome world, I am back again!" We don't know were he comes up with these sayings. Maybe on the cartoon shows he always watch when in hospital.

We have a theory that part of his recovery is the fact that as a kid he does not worry much like an adult would. He has this positive outlook in life. Plus all the prayers and positive support we get from family and friends. Plus all the staff at C2, C3 Wests and emergency ward at Sydney Children's Hospital at Randwick. Special mention and thanks to Prof Marshall for his expertise and commitment to children with cancers. Jay and Aiyee mucking around...

We have every reason to thank God for the grace and blessing for testing us. He chose a good test subject in Jaylen!

If you want to donate money to any charity, please keep in mind the Sydney Children's Hospital, The Leukeamia Foundation, Ronald McDonalds House Charities and the Starlight Children's Foundation. Please give generously.

So everytime Charles would celebrate his birthday, the following day would be a special day also for all of us. And we pray that it will continue to be so!

What are you trying to say?

2007-11-21T22:37:00.000+11:00

I think he's telling us something...

We know summer is here, coz you're wearing your sunnies!

Hey wait a second... that is not your sunnies. They are... uh.. swimming goggles!

Ok we get it, you want us to take you to the beach... Bondi here we come!

This last one taken at Uncle Flinton and Auntie Maria's flat at Bondi. Thanks for having us.

Their Big Red Car

2007-11-21T22:19:00.000+11:00

These are my three wiggles.

Taken at my backyard last week, I think Rea's birthday. That was the time Kallen and Jay had the chicken pox, lucky Aiyee didn't get it!

Happy Birthday Dy... Happy Birthday Charles...

2007-11-21T21:44:00.000+11:00

What was left of Rea's cake... Mmmmm....

November is a "busy" month for us. Busy in the sense that several members of the family celebrate their birthdays in November.

Last 13, it is my daughter Rea. Today is my dad's "37th" birthday and tommorow is my son-in-law, Charles' birthday.

So happy birthdays to you guys!

I just called my dad, who we called Dy (or Di, short for Daddy....). This is one of the longest conversation I had with him in a long time. We, my sisters and I; usually call him during holidays and birthdays. I guess just to say hello and touch base.

I learned that he had a bout of bad case of influenza a couple of weeks back. But he seems to be ok now.

He said that most of his brothers and sisters saw him last Saturday, the 17th; I guess for an early birthday celebration. You see he is the eldest among his siblings. There is Uncle Ben, Uncle Gani (for Isagani), Auntie Ligaya, Auntie Liway (for Liwayway), Uncle Bayan (for Bayani), Auntie Zeny, Uncle David (RIP), Auntie Mercy and Auntie Celia. It must have been a nice mini reunion of sorts. Thus I asked him to sent me some pictures.

The last time we had this impromptu reunion was when my grandmother, Lola Genia, died in 2004; their mother. This is one of the rare times that the clan was present. At least most of us. My lola would have been proud to see all her children, grandchildren and friends there!

Hopefully we'll have a proper reunion next time.

Again, Happy Birthday Dy!

Happy Birthday Rea!

2007-11-13T12:29:00.000+11:00

Today my daughter Rea was born... I believe that was one of the happiest moments in my life. Seeing your child born. Like you have this God-like ability to create and procreate a human being.

But as any parent knows, this is not the end of your "God-like" abilities and responsibilities. You, as a parent, have to guide and care for this person that you have introduced into this world.

Looking back and seeing today the "product", I feel (and I know Honey will concur) that I/we have done a splendid job. I mean, it may not be all because of me and my wife's rearing; but the total life experience gave us this wonderful person.

Obviously she is far from perfect, but she turned out a very responsible, loving and caring person especially her role as a mother to three boys.

Happy Birthday sweetheart. Your mom bought you the one thing you wanted for this year, as always you are spoilt!

Simply Jessie by Rex Smith

2007-11-11T10:45:00.000+11:00

"And I don’t know how I knew it

But I knew it somehow

You’re the answer to the question

No one’s answered till now

And I don’t know what you see

What you see in me

Girl it’s nothing to what I see in you

Stars that glisten

Lips for kissin’

Honey listen it’s true

No one ever loved you better

I love ya honey

And I’ve known a girl or two

But none of them was you

And they could never be what you are to me

Stars that glisten

Lips for kissin’

Honey listen it’s true

No one ever loved you better

I love ya honey I love you

I love you

I love you"

Honey was listening to her Nokia mobile phone's MP3, and this song came up. She asked me to Google it and above is the lyrics. The tune and lyrics are both nice and we just liked it. Apparently, as I Googled it, it was sung in a movie called Sooner or Later...

The photo was taken by Honey at our backyard. I think she was infected by my enthusiasm. She liked the flowering cactus, as well as the rich pink color of the flower itself. Which she was reminded of something very close to her heart!