Philippine Vacation 2010 - Surigao Here we come!

My hubby and kids were waiting outside the airport in hope that
my family was there to meet us. But we didn’t see any of them. All the passengers were slowly gone and only a few people left, including us. All the excitement I felt was melting down and turn to disappointment and sadness.
We hired a tricycle to take us to our hotel and I can’t help wonder why they didn’t come and meet us? To ease my crazy thoughts I sent a message to my niece and asked where in the world are they? Then, I found out that they were actually coming but the jeepney they were hiring were broken and need to be fixed. The news calmed me down.
We stayed in our favorite hotel in Surigao City. It had changed a lot since our last vacation. Anyway, my families finally showed up in the hotel after an hour of waiting. They were all looked exhausted and hungry. I took them to the restaurant for a late lunch. We started talking and exchanging greetings while waiting our food. My kids were shy seeing their aunts, nieces and grandma. The last time my kids saw my family was three years ago and they were young. I was happy to see my siblings, especially my mother. I noticed that she lost weight and was getting on in age. One of the reasons we visited my family was to celebrate my mother’s 75th birthday. I was starving for Filipino cuisine but the food wasn’t ready yet. It took the restaurant 30 minutes before the food arrived since we ordered a lot.
My siblings were fascinated with my kids, I guess because they thought they are beautiful. My kids are beautiful indeed! It was late afternoon when we finished eating. We really had a good conversation with good food and we didn’t notice the time. The exhaustion I felt earlier was totally gone after I saw my family.
I got three rooms for my family so they can relax and rest. It will be a big day in the morning. We headed to our room and finished our conversation until we all became tired and fell asleep. Even though I was still tired I got up very early the next day and could not go back to sleep. I took shower and packed up again for our trip to my village while my kids and hubby are still snoring. Then, I made a list of all the things I want to do along with a list of all the groceries.

Philippine Vacation 2010.

Time rolled so fast and I can't believe it's already one month since we returned from our trip from the Philippines. We flew from Boise to Seattle all the way to Korea and Philippines. Whew! it was a long and tiresome flight. I didn't realized how miserable it was when you are running from your next flight to another. Anyway, over all it was amazing!

We stayed in a beach resort in Cebu on our first day in the Philippines. We arrived at the resort late at night and we are starving and exhausted. Luckily they have a 24 hour service. Right after we checked-in we took a shower and headed to the restaurant for chow. It was 3 am when we all finally knocked down and got up before lunch.
It’s a nice and quite place for relaxing, it had a beauty of nature that I’ve always dream to go once in awhile. The kids are enjoying and so was hubby. We explored the place and found it so delightful. We had a wonderful dinner with my high school friend that night, we chatted remembering the old times. She brought her beautiful girl with her and got to see and meet my kids. We still had not recovered from our long trip. We left the restaurant before midnight and packed up again for the trip next day. We got up very early to get ready for another flight to see my folks in Surigao. The flight from Cebu City to Surigao City will take 45 minutes. So here we come Surigao! I haven’t seen my folks for three years and I was so excited to see them. Anyhow, we arrived in Surigao City on time.

Right after the plane landed I felt like I wanted to jump out so I can see my family. The weather was hot when we arrived in Surigao. When I walked down it amazed me when the airline crews handed an umbrella to each passenger.

I told my husband to meet my family outside while I am waiting for our luggage. The porter was kind enough to assist us with all our baggage. Of course, I need to pay him:-) that is how it works.

Continue later.

Cassava pie Recipe.

I have been cooking this recipe since I came to the United States.
This is my childhood friends favorite snacks back in the Philippines and now my kids also love it.

It surprised me when I first saw my friends eating the whole pie.
Then I started to wonder, what is it in this recipe that they can't resist eating?

I was disappointed that my first attempt to make cassava pie it didn't turn out good, it was watery and the consistency is far than I thought. But, it didn't stop there.
One of my weakness is to keep doing till I get it right...like the old saying, "more practice makes you perfect".
4 cups grated cassava ( I bought at asian store)
2 pcs. eggs
2 1/2 white sugar
1 cup evaporated milk
1 cup cocomilk
1/4 cup melted butter or margarine
2 cup young coco strips (optional)
1/4 cup nestle cream

For toppings:
1/2 cocomilk cream
1/4 brown sugar
1/2 grated cheese

Procedure:

Mix all ingredients together.
Blend well. Put in a grease and floured pan.
Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes.
Put the toppings and cook until done.

Planning our trip to the Philippines.

It has been 3 years since our last visit to the Philippines. The kids are growing up and they can hardly remember the memories we have with our folks back home. A lot of things changed - - - I got my citizenship, the kids are both in school, and we finally finished the house we built in the Philippines.

Every year since our last visit - - - we planned on visiting, but due to circumstances; like hubby was sent overseas or the kids are in School, we couldn't manage. So, this year we plan to go visit my family, thinking about the vacation makes me excited. I miss them - - - especially my mother. They are all excited as well to know that we are planning for a vacation and spending time talking, eating ,and laughing , that is the most exciting part I am looking forward to in our empending trip.

School Is Here.

I finally finished buying all the school supplies and stuff needed for my kids. To make them more excited I let them choose the things on the lists that was given by the school. I can see the excitement on their face, especially my 5 year old son who is going to be in kindergarten this fall. They are good to go. The school will start next week and it means staying up late is over.

The other day I told my son to study his ABC's and 123's as a preparation for school. Instead of saying," yes mommy", he just directly replied, "those are boring." I was shocked when he say that. I know he doesn't understand how school is important. I explained to him that it is very important to learn and school is fun. I also told him that school is an adventure that will shape his life as he grows up. I hope he understands that.

Pork Tapa.

It has been a battle to feed my children, specifically my four years old and after a lot of hard work in the kitchen I finally made them eat the recipe that I just learned. I was flabbergasted and proud that they manage to eat it for lunch, supper and the left overs for the next day. It is a lucky dish, I should get some for a charm and play the lottery and I might win..hahaha! As I mention earlier my kids are very picky and I get frustrated most of the time. With this new dish I can make them eat. 2 lbs. pork tenderloin, or beef cut into qaurter inch slices
1 Tablespoon finely minced garlic
2 Tablespoon sugar
6 Tablespoon soy sauce
1 Tablespoon salt peter - optional
2 Tablespoon olive oil
6 Tablespoon white venigar
1 Tablespoon salt
- Combine all the ingredients and marinate overnight or for several days in the fridge.
- Drain pork and fry in oil until very well done
- Drain in the piece of paper towel. Put over rice and enjoy.

Summer Safety for Working Parents.

I appreciate the guest post, Jenny Caldwell

Summer is most kids' favorite time of year. No school, sleeping in late and tons of things to do make this an all time favorite for kids and parents alike. The downfall is that parents cannot take the summer off of work to be home with their kids. If you are lucky you have a family member or good friend who will be watching your kids during your work hours. They can keep the summer fun for the kids with lots of activities and the security of being around someone they know.

Most teenagers may be trusted to be home alone during the day while you are at work, provided there are rules to be followed that keep them safe at home. An alarm system is one thing no home should be without. Parents will feel much more secure having babysitters or teenagers in the house knowing the alarm will be triggered should an intruder break in. Kids of all ages, as well as babysitters and family members should know how to set the security system from the inside of the home, should an emergency arise. With a little luck and planning your kids can have a great summer while you continue to work and have the evenings and weekends to enjoy your summer with the kids.

Whistle.

It surprises me that my children recognize my whistle. One day they were outside a couple houses away playing with friends. I whistle, as to get their attention, like coming home instead of yelling. To my surprise they turned back and race to come to our house. My little girl was asking if that was me calling them. It means they know my whistle- - -this reminds me of my childhood days.

My mother used to whistle to us siblings and it echoed down the whole street. Even friends recognize my mother’s signal and we hurried to come home. It’s like going back down memory lane. I remember my old folks back home say that, you can sometimes live the life we have when we are small and, add to the life of our own children which is true in some ways.

Did you know this? I didn't.

Don't even try and act like you all ready knew this either. And if you did, why didn't you tell me??

I had to go into the kitchen and check this out for myself. Whoever looks at the end of your aluminum foil box? You know when you try to pull some foil out and the roll comes out of the box. Then you have to put the roll back in the box and start over. The roll always comes out at the wrong time.Well, I would like to share this with you. Yesterday I went to throw out an empty Reynolds foil box and for some reason I turned it and looked at the end of the box. And written on the end it said, Press here to lock end. Right there on the end of the box is a tab to lock the roll in place. How long has this little locking tab been there? I then looked at a generic brand of alumi num foil and it had one, too. I then looked at a box of Saran wrap and it had one too! I can't count the number of times the Saran wrap roll has jumped out when I was trying to cover something up.I'm sharing this with my friends. I hope I'm not the only person that didn't know about this.
Via email

Home Security.

It was during my hubby's first deployment when I came up with the idea of getting a security system in our home. It made me feel safe and secure knowing that we have technology that will provide protection for our home and family.

It is also a smart idea to install an additional security video camera that gives more protection for our home and family. Very convenient, in that you can see who is coming to your door before you decide to open it. It also gives you a secure feeling, especially when your kids are outside. You can monitor and see what they are doing and who they are playing with.

Since I've been married and had kids I must to admit that security systems is very important. This is the only way you can give the whole family peace of mind.

Make sure you get good security equipment that you can depend on with a backup battery and equipment guide. It provides comprehensive information and tips on what you should do. We all know that it is very important to learn basic safety to prevent problems in a long run.

Summer Driving.

Summer is the time for outside fun, picnics and camping's. One preparation that needs to be done is to make sure that your vehicle is in good condition. Wherever we head during these hot summer days, it is important to drop the vehicle first to Dallas Auto Repair. Just in case there's something that needs to be done. You'll never know when problems arise when you are on the road.

Safety is the first thing in mind. We can only assure this by taking your vehicle to a brake job. It doesn't matter what vehicle you are driving; be it a Chevrolet Silverado or any kind. It is still very important to get it inspected before going on any trip, especially a long one.
I remember when I first started to drive our 5 year old car. I heard a lot of noises in it and I didn't know where they came from. One day I talked to my hubby and told him about it because I'm scared driving with all the noise here and there. Then, we decided to take our vehicle for inspection.

Happy Father's Day.

A sweet note from my daughter to her Daddy.

I Love My Daddy
And all that he does
To help me feel warm, safe and snug.
I just want to say,
"HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!"
And give you a great big HUG!!
I Love You.


For the man of my dreams, my best friend, a wonderful father, and a great son and brother, you know that we all are proud of you and know that you are always in our heart. We are counting the days when you finally be home. We miss and love you. Happy father's day.

Girls In My Circle.

When I was little, I used to believe in the concept of one best friend,
And then I started to become a woman.
And then I found out that if you allow your heart to open up,
God would show you the best in many friends.

One friend is needed when you're going through things with your man.
Another friend is needed when you're going through things with your mom.
Another will sit beside you in the bleachers as you delight in your children and their activities. Another when you want to shop, share, heal, hurt, joke, or just be.
One friend will say, 'Let's cry together,'
Another , 'Let's fight together,'
Another , 'Let's walk away together.'

One friend will meet your spiritual need,
Another your shoe fetish,
Another your love for movies,
Another will be with you in your season of confusion,
Another will be your clarifier,
Another the wind beneath your wings.

But whatever their assignment in your life,
On whatever the occasion,
On whatever the day,
Or wherever you need them to meet you with their gym shoes on and hair pulled back,
Or to hold you back from making a complete fool of yourself .
Those are your best friends.

It may all be wrapped up in one woman, But for many, it's wrapped up in several..
One from 7th grade,
One from high school,
Several from the college years,
A couple from old jobs,
On some days your mother,
On some days your neighbor,
On others, your sisters,And
on some days, your daughters.

So whether they've been a friend for 20 minutes or 20+ years,
AND ONLY IF YOU'D LIKE TO,
God has placed these women in your life to make a difference.
THANKS FOR BEING IN MY CIRCLE !!!!

Via email.

In My Daughter's Eyes.

I started making a small video clip for Mother's day presentation after this music came out. It really moved me especially when I see my little princess. The first day she was born and up to now that she grew up as a good and sweet little girl. God is really good. Happy Mother's day.

Application for a US Passport.

I applied for a US passport one week after I received my naturalization. I am excited to think that soon I'll have a US passport and I can travel now with less hassles ( I hope). I will wait one month to get the passport in the mail. I hardly remember how long would it take to get these things done from the last applications for my kids. The good thing is we can send our application forms by mail.

Since this is my first time in applying a US passport, I needed to show up in the office along with my naturalization certificate and they will enclosed it in the application.

For some information on how to file an application for a US passport visit travel.state.gov.

Happy Valentines.

I cannot express how happy I am today celebrating my Valentines day with my husband and two beautiful kids. It has been three successive years that we never celebrated Valentines together since he is working overseas. Luckily he is with us this time and that made our day special.

It was just a quite week and I thought he is not doing anything special , but I was wrong and he surprised me with flowers and Ipod nano. Ipod nano? Oh yea, I had a hard time figuring out how to work this new gadget, but I did. I like it a lot. Can you believe that I forgot to get anything for him and for my kids? I feel really bad. I just give them kisses. I am kind of slow and I can't believe it.

Anyhow, we started our day attending Mass this morning and then headed to OLive Garden for lunch. We really had a wonderful time together, the best part is he bought me a bottle of my favorite wine Moscato, to take home. I cannot find it in any store except at Olive Garden. It was made from Italy and I can't resist the taste. It was really good , soft and delicate and I tell you I can drink a whole bottle. I hope you all have a good Valentines.

U.S. Citizenship.

It has been a year since I last posted. Time flies so quickly like a wind that is sometimes hard to notice. Life has always been so good to us. It seems that we are awake when God shower's his blessings on human kind. Anyway, I finally got my naturalization a week ago and I'm proud to be American citizen.

I was surprised that the whole process takes only three months. I heard it will take six months or so to get everything done, but in my case it was so quick. I file the form N-400 October 2009 and after one week I received a notice for my fingerprinting scheduled October 29, 2009. I was so lucky that I didn't need to travel to get this things done since we have a field office here in Boise. In two weeks after the fingerprints I received another notice for my interview which was scheduled December 8th 2009. Tell me its not quick. So you have one month to study for the exam. They will give you a materials to study and it was very easy. Of course what kills you is the anticipation of the whole process. Then after the interview/exam they will give you an invitation for oath taking.

Make sure you will submit all the required documents and fill up the forms correctly. The next thing I'm going to do is to bring some of my family here in the USA. We'll try to work on that sometime this year.