la,la,la,la,la ....Merry X'mas!

With my baby sis around, it's a merry, merry Christmas to our family. Though we didn't have so much bonding times, I treasure moments she stayed with me in my room while viewing her thousand photos....until I drop down into sleep...

that's why she's fondly called as "LALA" ....bcoz of the joys she continuously brings into our lives...

I luv her just like my own, and she'll always be my baby....

Welcoming our OFWs...

Our Bagong Bayani from Singapore - LALA & LENLEN!
I rendered the song "Kahit Konting Awa" for them. And Tita Yollen sponsored the tarpaulin to welcome them. It's such a jolly Christmas with these jolly people around.

THANK YOU for all the pasalubongs...Panalo sa Japan, Singapore pala!

Look Alike....(3 generations)

My Loving LOLA INGGA...

A simple widow but with a generous heart for her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. At 86, she's still living a full life with lots of love to offer to her family. She may look weary but she never grows tired caring for us in her own little ways.

Thank God for a great LOLA!!!

Christmas Visit....

We love our TITA YOLLEN....

There's a unique way on how my Tita Yollen cares for all her pamangkins...And I'm the luckiest being her very first niece - so blessed to receive her exclusive love and admiration when I was a child. She has wit and humor and a generous heart.

One thing for sure, "we love our Tita Yollen."

Christmas '05 and '08....

Picture-taking is a must every time we have a Family Reunion. Since we're not always complete every Christmas, we have to send some photos to our family members abroad. Though they've missed the fun, seeing us happy would surely make them happy.

There's no better Christmas than spending it with your family.
Thank God for the gift of Family!

Thank you TITO DENNIS....

Just want to say "THANK YOU" for sharing your blessings with us. We've enjoyed the "salu-salo" and the "aguinaldo." It's another memorable Christmas for each one of us. It's our way of honoring "Lolo Zario" for this beautiful tradition of reuniting our family....

Before and After....

o, nagulat kayo!!!
That's my SIS.....











chubby po sya before...pero di sya papaawat...

PEOPLE, PEOPLE, PEOPLE....

My favorite subject is people. Because I value relationships more than anything else. My family and friends matter most to me. My blog has been an avenue in expressing my admiration and love for them. You may live just once, so take the chance of showing them how much you care. PEOPLE, PEOPLE, PEOPLE....WE ALL NEED PEOPLE!!!

Good Friends, too!!!

Baby Quane

Bea and Seven....

How they bring joy into our hearts - Bea and Seven!!!

Our little darlings and adorable babies!!!

My cousin MILET...

She's my first cousin "Milet" - easy and fun to be with...Our bonding is usually an "eat all you can" at Don Henrico and a cup of coffee at Figaro. Our regular companion is the gigantic "Beteng."

I could still remember that we're both called "Itas" by our relatives, during our elementary days.

Happy Birthday Wia!!!

GOD is in control....

People get out of balance when facing a problem. Some have lost their sanity or committed suicide because they don't know how to deal with their predicaments.

They should have discovered the secret of living a fuller life as Christians. It's realizing that there are things that are beyond our control as human beings and only GOD can do. We should leave it to Him, surrender and trust that GOD IS IN CONTROL!

I thank and praise God for the gift of faith....

"For The First Time"

It's another movie date with my bestfriend's mom...We watched "For the First Time" and we both enjoyed the film...Knowing my companion who's a critic of Sharon Cuneta and quite hard to please, surprisingly has become a fan of her beautiful daughter KC after seeing the movie...So you must believe me that you're P110 is worth it!!! We just went home smiling and mutually saying, "ang ganda...."

I missed it....

Ha!Ha!Ha! Out of too much excitement - I missed the chat with my sis! Because I was in deep sleep and woke up at 10:30...too late for us to chat! I found her text message asking why I'm not yet online....so I just said sorry and told her the truth, no alibis!!!

Chat with my sis...

Two weeks ago, I had a great time chatting with my sis...She's prettier than me on cam...Anyway, she's 10 years younger than me, so there's no sibling rivalry.

In her 8 months of stay in Singapore, it's an achievement that she had lost weight....While we're chatting, she stood up and walked like a model to flaunt her slimmer figure...and I just laughed at her wackiness...

I just checked my Friendster and got a message from her, that we'll be chatting tonight...I immediately told her that I won't be leaving the house and will be online at 7pm...For sure, she has silly things to do again - to make me laugh!!!

Bonding with my Tita Yollen

Yesterday, I went to Serendra with my Tita Yollen and her friend "Kookoo." I brought my digicam, but when I'm about to take pictures of the sceneries, I found out that there's no memory card. We just enjoyed the gourmet food at Contis. Though servings were small, we got full afterwards. We're very much amused with the comical tales of her gay friend, Kookoo.

It's been years since I last bonded with my Tita Yollen..so when she invited me out, I said yes right away. She's one of those few people who've showered me with love and affection during my childhood days. Great memories with her is one of my best gifts in life.

Wisdom of My Tatay

"It's not by what happens to life but how we react to it; not even by what life brings us but by the attitude to life because destiny is not a thing to be waited for but a thing to be achieved."

If there's one person who loves sending nice thoughts, it's my Tatay! I just received this text message from him and I felt guilty because it's been more than a month of not reaching him out....Whenever I receive touching message from him, I would show it to my friends and would brag about my loving father. There are times that his words of wisdom would make me cry especially when I have concerns that I opted not to share with my family. Of course, my Tatay knew me very well and he's gifted with an instinct to provide me with encouraging words via "text message" in times that I needed them most. I always believe in what he say but I'm not obedient all the time. But there's one thing that I keep in mind, his reminder since I was a child - "To Pray Always."

Restoring my enthusiasm...

I've been working in a call center for almost five years, so experiencing "burnt out" is a normal thing. It's really a struggle, sometimes I have to drag myself into work. Honestly, I'm no longer happy with my job but still contemplating on the next career to pursue. For now, I have to give what is due to the company I work for and help myself to stay motivated.

These are the ways I adopted to restore my work enthusiasm:

1) Pray, Pray, Pray....
2) Read Self-Help Books
3) Appreciate the value of your work
4) Look outside
5) Find a hobby
6) Talk to a friend
7) Get feedback from your supervisor
8) Surround yourself with positive people

It's not easy but it's our vocation to become a better worker of God!

My Wonderful Godchildren....

Believe it or not, these four siblings are my godchildren! They are Patricia, Eeyah, Izza and Jed.

Honestly, when I'm bored with my single life, visiting my godchildren is an effective stress-reducer. Their hugs and kisses warm up my heart and make my day. Though no one has ever called me "Mommy," I'm still blessed to have godchildren who call me "Ninang" - their second mom.

Happy Birthday Tita Nellie!

They are the joy and pride of my Tita Nellie!
Her grandchildren - Kailani, Nicholas and Dakota...

We love you mama!!!

"Few Good Men"

It's been two years since he went home for a vacation with his family. And now, our good friend is back! Rommel, better known as "Gabs Pogi" is one of the most pleasant guys I've ever known. He always has a ready smile to everyone. A career in public service is best suited for his awesome personality.

It's true that there are only "Few Good Men" and we're so proud that you're one of them!

God bless you and your beautiful family!

Tapping our hidden talents...

Whether we like it or not, we have to shine! Performing on stage is challenging but it's only once a year that we're forced to show off our unrevealed talents. And the venue is at workplace and the season is Christmas.

Although I didn't ask for their permission, I have the liberty to publish some of our wacky photos taken in December 2007. At least, the whole world will get a chance to see my cool officemates in their best costume and finest moments! Be our critic by posting a comment....

Our Lady of Good Voyage

There were many instances in my life that I've found refuge in "Our Lady of Good Voyage" - Nuestra Senora de Buenviaje in Antipolo. It's a different kind of peace I usually feel after I've sought intercession from Our Mother.

As Catholic, I do believe in intercessory prayers and I have devotion to Mama Mary. Believing that we're relying on graces every day, prayers play a crucial part in our Christian life. Although our voyage is not always calm and peaceful, we could still reach our destination safely with the help of Our Beloved Mother.

DEAMPAULLES - 1st Day in school!

It was my day-off. My cousin's grandchild has caught my attention. I hastily went out to invite my cousin to come inside our house. I just want to take picture of her cute granddaughter - dressed up in pink, wearing a cap, sunglasses and a name tag. Since it's first day of class, delightful accessories were put on to this adorable child, to make her appear like it's her 1st day in school.

After the shot, I just laughed with my cousin. And now, I'm publishing Deampaulles' Souvenir Photo.

Building up my NETWORK FRIENDS....

After a stressful day in the office, I'm now facing my desktop and getting some relief looking at my blog. It's really an achievement. Until now, I could not imagine having my own website and have published a number of posts.

The thrilling part is seeing your visitors and getting connected with them through their own website. It's a give and take process just like making friends via chat, e-mail, etc. It's phenomenal - how you can build up your network thru this creative tool.

And I'm thankful for all those behind this free and easy-to-use website, "Blogger." You've made a difference in our lives....More power to you and to all my Blogger Friends."

Sweetest Couple

One of the sweetest couple I've seen are my parents. My father is the demonstrative type while my mother is the reserved one. Through the years, we've witnessed their great love for each other. They got married at the young age of seventeen but they've responsibly raised us.

They maybe old now but they tirelessly care and support each other. They've depicted true love and friendship in their 40 years of marriage. My mom proudly says, "My children are my assets." Well, I'm pleased to say that, "Our family is my treasure." Isn't it treasure more meaningful than asset? Come to think of it....

Pamper Yourself!

It's such a wonderful healthy experience to give yourself a body treat - a break away from stressful days in your home or at work. And I'm one of those women out there who loves to go to the spa for a soothing body massage. It's a different kind of pleasure to get relaxation from the hands of a skilled therapist. One thing for sure, you'll feel invigorated afterwards.....

Take a break and pamper yourself!!!

A Good Apology

A good apology has three parts:
1) I'm sorry
2) It was my fault
3) How do I make it right?

A lot of people usually miss the third part.

I received this text message from my friend Yam and it made sense to me. Because I'm one of those who can easily apologize for a mistake but seldom exert an effort to avoid repeating it.

My realization was no matter how I've tried my best to overcome my weakness, I still fail. It's true that changing our ways is not possible without help from God. It's only through God's grace - with fervent prayers and God's word as our weapon - that we could triumph over our shortcomings.

Thank You Note

It's 2am...I'm already done checking my emails and friendster. I'm so tired and not in a perfect mood to write for my blog...But I love reviewing my older posts..I would check for new comments....I would recheck my grammar...I would glance through the photos...

It's a different kind of fulfillment when you could see your published thoughts...How much more if a visitor would compliment your post...That's why I came up with the "Thank You Note" category for my blog...Honestly, until now I couldn't believe that people from different parts of the world are viewing my website...I do love browsing through "live traffic feed."

From the bottom of my heart, "Thank you so much."

And now, I'm ready to publish my next post.....Enjoy reading and feel at home!!!

Beautiful Tandem....

Meet my friend Annazel with her equally beautiful daughter Danna...

They're both chic and charming. They got wit and humor...and a soft heart!!!

My Disclosure Policy

This blog is personally written and edited by me. It contains some of my personal thoughts and feelings that I would want to share to the readers.

Even though, I may accept compensation for my posts, I will always give my honest views and opinions on certain topics, products and services. And the content may not be always identified as paid or sponsored.

As the owner of this blog, I will express only my own thoughts and opinions.

This policy is valid from July 1, 2008.

How I wish they're my children....

I was just thinking if I got married at a young age...maybe, my children are grown ups now!...Not by choice that I'm still single...Of course, I've experienced falling in and out of love...And I do have my "baby dreams."

In my workplace, two of my colleagues love calling me "Mama Kat." I don't mind because they're both loveable and a lot younger than me. They are none other than my dream son and daughter - Kristian and Jacq.

Kristian is warm and friendly. He's the first one who called me "Mama Kat." Jacq is confident and articulate. She always has a ready smile to everyone and has a unique, contagious kind of laughter.

You may agree with me that they look good together and I'm an avid fan of them. I may not be their biological mom but I just love them both!!! They're authentic, easy and fun to be with....

Thank you DEY

Hi Dey,

You're right! It's something I'd want to do...who knows, it's time for a career shift!

I still thank God that we've been given a chance to love...although we didn't end up with the love of our life...we're blessed because we have God in our hearts...

For now, let's just offer "universal love" and support a real foundation....

Keep going...We'll be victorious in the end!

luv,

cathy

la, la, la, la, la, la, la........

My blog has showcased a lot of special people in my life. I won’t forgive myself if I can’t find a space on the web, to compliment my one and only sister. She is a Doctor of Medicine, at the age of 27. My parents supported her education throughout, with the generous help of our close relatives.

When my sister passed the boards last year, I was the one hysterical. We broke into tears and hugged each other. My mother’s blood pressure shot up when she heard us screaming. My brother was just smiling while staring at us. My father, who was in Saudi during that incident, sent me a text message that he was on cloud nine. He’s very thankful because he had religiously prayed the rosary daily for a month. It was one of the touching moments in our family history.

My sister is a fusion of the positive traits of my parents.We fondly call her Lala – a name suited for a person who’s been a source of joy and inspiration to her family and friends. Please join me and let’s cheerfully sing together, “la, la, la, la, la, la, la….”

Happy Birthday Lala!

my only sister who gives real joy in my heart
who inspires every member of the family
for her enthusiasm and determination in life
a wonderful blessing to thank for….
because I’ve found a true friend
in my baby sister LALA!

Shopping with Meech...

Last Friday, my sweet friend Meech invited me to go malling. We pigged out at Via Mare. Afterwards, each of us tried to fit more than five pieces of blouse with different style, but to no avail. We just laughed at ourselves as we look at our humps and bulges in the mirror. We could no longer deny that we need to shed off some extra pounds.

Cool blouses under the brand “Nanno” caught our attention, just fifteen minutes before the mall closed. We hurriedly tried them out. Guess what? We’re able to give justice and we both left satisfied with our purchase. We didn’t mind buying a blouse with same style but with different colors. So it’s up to us as to who’ll flaunt it first in the office...

Shopping has relieved our stress in a way. And we both went home smiling...

Thank you BLOGGER!!!

I got a chance to chat with my friend Dhez for the first time via yahoo messenger. I just published my post about her and asked her to check my blog - as in right now! And she was touched by my message. hu!hu!hu!

It's my pleasure honoring my family and friends. It's fulfilling whenever I have a chance to make them happy in my own little ways. It's my way of telling them that,"I do care."

That's the reason why I enjoy blogging! I already found an avenue to show my appreciation about life and the people I love....Thank you BLOGGER!!!

Desiree

Desiree is her name because she’s indeed desirable – well-loved by her family and friends. She is a loving and doting mother of Joshua and Jad.

I could still remember that Dhez, Weng, Alvin and Jessie were among my first few friends at Telemoney. They easily accepted me in their group. And we shared a lot of fun memories together.

Weng and I are both grateful that we’ve found true friendship in you. We salute you for all the sacrifices you've been doing for your kids and your family.

You’ll always be in our thoughts and prayers. We love and miss you, friend!

Thank you CHERRY

Hi Cherry!

I just read your comments. If i've been inspiring you in a way, your beautiful message has inspired me more, to keep on sharing my thoughts...

Thank you so much! God bless you more!

luv,
cathy

No blogging on Sunday!

It's Saturday, 11:45PM. I'm still busy writing and uploading photos for my blog. Sunday is a rest day and I want a stress-free mind! Since scheduling of posts is possible now, you can still read this post by tomorrow. So I don't need to face my desktop, organize my thoughts and blog for hours.

I just want to relax - watch ASAP and THE BUZZ! I'm planning to hang out with some of my friends and visit my besfriend's mom, "Etang."

I'm looking forward to a "Beautiful Sunday." Wish me luck!!!

My Siblings

I’m the eldest, with one brother and one sister. My sister is an achiever while my brother is a simple guy.

I always text my sister with “I love you” messages but I’m not at ease doing it to my brother. I sometimes feel guilty because I’m more generous and affectionate to my sister. Maybe, the reason is our 10 years age gap. And I had a chance to take care of her, so until now she’s like my baby…

I once told my sister, “I love for you what you are and not for what you have or have achieved.” I haven’t told this to my brother, but I also love him....and I want to express it now!!!

Each Day Counts....

I'm on leave today. There are so many things bothering me. So instead of dwelling into my worries, I thought of creating my second blog. Honestly, i'm not in the mood to write but i know blogging is something that could give me a temporary relief....so I tried...tried...and tried...

And the title I have in mind, "Each Day Counts" seems perfect!

It's indeed all up to me on how I'll invest my time...So I'd rather be creative than distractive...that's the spirit!

If you've been enjoying connecting with me through "Emotional Connection," allow me to share more beautiful things about life by making "Each Day Counts."

Thank you for the chance to disclose a part of myself to all of you!!!

your blogger friend,

cathy

Each Day Counts...

Each year has 365 days.

How you’ll invest each day is up to you.

Make each day count!!!