A Juggling Act

Lil Drummer Boy

noreply@blogger.com (Vanniedosa) — Fri, 18 May 2012 03:19:00 +0000

Joshua is out!!

Phil and Jessica are in the top 2 this season of American Idol. I wish I could say, I freakin' knew it but I really thought Joshua and Jessica will fight this one out.

Although I can clearly see America's fascination with Phil, he is a true artist and a hottie at that (in a weird non-sexy in your face way). Anyway, I can't wait for the season finale next week!

Anyway! My son, Jacob whose just 2 clearly is inclined to the arts. Music, dancing even painting. Now, whenever American Idol is on and somebody is singing a song which is loud and over the top we catch him mimicking the singers moves, melody and even a bit of the words (he can't really talk yet). I wonder if he'll be an artist too? I was thinking since his birthday is coming up and I might be away for a month that he deserve a nice special gift. Online, I saw a 3-Piece Deluxe Junior Pulse Drums Set for sale at 35% off! It is pretty affordable and I am sure he will love it. This picture was taken when he was 1 y/o and he instinctively knew what to do with the sticks. I will think about this one since the drum set might be too noisy for his grandparents (and the parents!)? Well, for what its worth I am sure we will support him no matter what path or musical instrument he chooses.

Friday Fill Ins

noreply@blogger.com (Vanniedosa) — Fri, 18 May 2012 02:18:00 +0000

And...here we go!

1. When we kiss - fire!
2. Right now, my head is filled with thoughts of YOGA.
3. It'll be a long day and I can't wait for the weekend.
4. New York is a place I always wanted to visit, but haven't yet.
5. When I'm sad you won't even notice; when I'm happy then you will.
6. What do you want to know about my community.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to Open Flow Vinsaya Yoga, tomorrow my plans include Gymboree and mass and Sunday, I want to go Island Hopping with friends!

I Wanna Sleep In This

noreply@blogger.com (Vanniedosa) — Mon, 14 May 2012 07:49:00 +0000

I am so not enjoying today. I didn't sleep well last night because I had allergy attacks all night. I was sneezing and my nose was all runny. My eyes were itchy and watery and I could not stop rubbing them. So obviously, today I feel like falling asleep at work but obviously, I can't. Been planning to buy more sheets for our double bed but I keep on delaying it because I use the money allocated for other expenses that keeps on popping up. May has been a very expensive month, there's the car's comprehensive insurance, there's Joshua's tuition, his school supplies, books, vaccination and my nanny's unforseen medical bills.

I've been eyeing these cute dinosaur themed kids bedding quilts for some time now and I like it because it is fun and I am sure the kids will love sleeping in it. Initially I thought it was a bit pricey but now that it is discounted I may be willing to splurge just a little bit. What do you think? Cute, right?

Filipino’s grandmama could be Russia’s Anastasia

noreply@blogger.com (Vanniedosa) — Mon, 14 May 2012 03:33:00 +0000

COMPARE THE PORTRAITS The picture at left is that of the writer’s “Grandmama Tasia” when she was a young girl. The one at right is the portrait of the young Grand Duchess Anastasia Romanov of Russia, which she found on the Internet. CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS

I first met Caty Petersen in October 2010 through a mutual friend, who was convinced that I was the right person to write Caty’s story.

She divulged nothing more than that, asking me to just keep an open mind and join them for lunch, which at least promised to be a pleasant one; Kai was one of my favorite restaurants, and we hadn’t seen each other for months.

Caty rushed in, late and breathless and wide-eyed, a large brown envelope in hand, which she handed to me.

Over the next hour, I listened to her relate the highlights of a most unusual tale, riveting in many aspects, and somewhat incredible in others.

The story tumbled out of her, unrestrained. It was a search for roots.

Caty’s grandmother was Russian, but wasn’t someone she really knew that much about, and now she had pieced together a story that was clearly begging to be told. I convinced her to write the story herself.

So this is the story of her grandmother, but it is as much the story of Caty, whose journey of self-discovery really began over a century ago, in the heart of Russia.

By Caty Petersen

Continue reading here:

Filipino’s grandmama could be Russia’s Anastasia

Again.

noreply@blogger.com (Vanniedosa) — Mon, 14 May 2012 03:21:00 +0000

Monday came too soon. I am feeling a bit "off" my usual self. For one, I am unmotivated to work and days seem a bit redundant. My mind has been obsessing about losing weight but my appetite hasn't been helpful at all. I plan to do YOGA 3x a week now. I like it relaxes me. I find the exercise both physically challenging abd relatively easy. Easy, only because I am enjoying it so it is not a chore to do. I've done it 2x last week and I was looking to do it over the weekend. Since my schedule didn't permit me to, I was frustrated. I've never been like this when it comes to exercising because I am lazy that way. I hope to continue this determination from here on out. The flabs are unflattering and I am getting really annoyed with my clothes not looking right on me.

Moving Day

noreply@blogger.com (Vanniedosa) — Wed, 09 May 2012 08:39:00 +0000

The big office move is going to happen - the plan is (if the contractor will hold his end of the bargain) to move next week, Monday. I visited the office earlier to see the progress and it looks like it's about to be finished. Painting done. CR is done. They're just finalizing the divisions and the telephone lines as we speak. I am quite excited since I love redecorating or organizing a space. Why I didn't take up Interior Design is beyond me since clearly, that's what I love (apart from fashion). Anyway, I've been eyeing these faux window blinds and I think it will function perfectly to keep the office cozy looking while serving it's purpose and blocking the view from the outside. While I enjoy moving and all, I hate packing. I dislike having to sift through stacks of paper and file then deciding which one's to keep or discard. I plan to slowly do all those things starting Friday. I have the whole weekend too. My friends and I were supposed to go to the beach on Sunday but since that was cancelled because of Mother's Day - I'd spend the day with my family instead. Such a busy week, I can't even keep up with my to do list. Ack.

Miss Yoga

noreply@blogger.com (Vanniedosa) — Wed, 09 May 2012 08:03:00 +0000

I have had the chance to look at myself properly and see that I have indeed gained a considerable about of weight. About 10lbs to be exact. I have been trying to diet and lessen my carb and sweet intake but it's not enough, exercise is a must. Since I am not feeling Zumba so much, I will give YOGA a try. I will attend my first class later after work. My friend who co-owns the YOGA school recommended I attent the Intense Vinsaya which is sweat inducing and has medium poses. Right now, I will try the different classes first and enroll in a much longer time when I am sure which class I would like. At first, I was hesitant with YOGA but I have heard raves about it and most women I see practicing YOGA are all sexy, skinny and healthy - so they must be doing something right.

AAA's

noreply@blogger.com (Vanniedosa) — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 08:26:00 +0000

If you have kids, then automatically that means there are a lot toys in your house. The problem with these toys nowadays is that they often need batteries to operate. My son is faschinated with guns right now. At first it was dinosaurs. He was obsessed about them for about 3 years until he moved on to guns. His toy machine gun needs AAA batteries in 4's, in a month - I've gotten him 3 sets already. Eeeeeep. I guess if I buy in bulk, maybe I can save right? Read online about duracell procell on sale with free shipping too. OR, If I want to scratch buying batteries I'll get him an PSP instead? We have a kinect at home and he plays a lot of games there too but I am still glad he play around with his toy and runs around the house with his friends because he's being active. While video games and gadgets are fun, nothing beats the joy or playing physical activity with friends so I guess, buying batteries for his toys is a cheaper option that gadgets. =)

The Big Move

noreply@blogger.com (Vanniedosa) — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 09:46:00 +0000

We are in the process of transferring offices and because of that, work life has been pretty hectic for a few weeks now. I'm not complaining though because it is exciting to be going out of the house for a change. Finally, I can work outside the house. As an added bonus, our new office is just right across my sons school! =) So, fetching and all school related stuff is going to be easier from now on. So anyway, been checking up on the people renovating the new office and it is half way done. They have started to take out the tiles. All I need to do it check on the concrete blades, get a quote from the supplier of bathroom fixtures and buy the men some construction gloves and we're all set. If nothing will snag the plan, we'll be sitting pretty our new office by May. Ahhh. I read somewhere that 'April is a promise that May is bound to keep.' I hope that holds true because I can't wait to start working out of the house.

Summer '12 Look

noreply@blogger.com (Vanniedosa) — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 01:32:00 +0000

It's summer and scorching hot so I decided to cut off my hair. I was inspired by Kaye Abad's shorter 'do so what the heck. Let's do this. =)

Loving it.

Take Me To The Beach

noreply@blogger.com (Vanniedosa) — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 09:13:00 +0000

I am jealous of people posting their pictures in various beaches!!! Boracay. Bantayan. Bohol. Mactan. Anywhere with a big body of water is fine by me. By the looks of it, summer heat is not letting up soon so we have time to plan for a summer escapade just like last years when my friends and I, together with the kids went to Bantayan. Look at this place! With it clear blue waters, fantastic view and chic rustic decor, who wouldn't want to get lost in it?

For those interested, bantayan island is a 3 hour bus ride + 1 hour boat ride away from Cebu City. It is quite a long trip if you have kids below 5years old with you but it's paradise if you are into the sun, sea and sand.

Not Another Teen Vampire Series

noreply@blogger.com (Vanniedosa) — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 02:55:00 +0000

I am totally obsessing over the TV Series, The Vampire Diaries right now. I am team Stefan on this one. He is such a cutie.

Not only is he a hottie, he can act! I was initially hesitant to start watching because it was another "teen vampire show". My Husband was the one who convinced me otherwise. I am glad I listened to him because I am thoroughly enjoying the series. I had just finished Season 1 and now I am in the middle of season 2 already. The surprises and plot continually changes and evolves that I cannot seem to stop watching. Kudos to the cast and crew of series. They keep me entertained.

Weight Watch

noreply@blogger.com (Vanniedosa) — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 10:03:00 +0000

I've been struggling with keeping my weight in check for a couple of months now but I have been failing miserably. Instead of losing the extra pounds, it seems I've been steadily gaining weight. I blame it all on age. I am nearing 30's after all. Without any form of exercise, keeping my food intake in check is simply not enough - exercise or anything that involves physical activity is a must. I am thinking Zumba? Yoga? Sports? But what??? Badminton, I guess, but with whom? Ack. I am jealous of my friend Hazel, whose also a mother of 2. She has lost so much pounds after eating healthy. I wonder if I can do it too? I always remember what my friend told me, diet and exercise goes hand in hand. Also, don't forget to stay hydrated and take it slow! She's right by the way, when I checked online for to find out more about losing weight safely I saw all her advice were correct! =) There are additional tips like, keeping a food journal, eat a balanced meal and don't forget to consult the doctor. Sounds logical enough since people have different health issues. Some are diabetic, hypersensive and so on so it is wise to check with our doctor before going into a complete diet change. Knowing all that - I know what I have to do first. I have to drink more fluids, lessen my sugar intake (goodbye soda's and coffee) and pick a physical activity!!!! I've been so used to staying at home (I work at home) that I can count how many steps I take in a day! Not. A. Good. Sign.

My Big Brave Boy

noreply@blogger.com (Vanniedosa) — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 04:09:00 +0000

Looking at this pictures brings mixed emotions.

I am extremely proud of my little one, who has grown up before my eyes super fast. Although he is still 5 - he will be entering Grade 1 this June because of the new k + 12 program. I am certain he will be fine, but there's this part of me that is sad. I know that once he enters the big boy school it will only be a matter of years (2-3years) when his world will no longer revolve around me. Right now, I relish our little moments together. I savor every little hug and kiss I get because sooner or later, he won't want to anymore. He might even hate me for being so strict/uptight/nag/kill-joy/boring/old but that's how it is I guess especially with boys. But we'll alays have now. And that's what is important. I am so proud of you, Joshua. Daddy and I love you so much.

Music is Love

noreply@blogger.com (Vanniedosa) — Wed, 04 Apr 2012 10:46:00 +0000

My relatives are musically inclined. My aunts, cousins, my in-laws - even my kids are musically inclined! They can sing, perform and play an instrument. Piano, violin, guitar and even drums! My greatest regret is giving up on learning an instrument when I was young. Although, it's not too late to learn now, I can't seem to find the time to. I can even barely schedule an appointment to the dentist much more enroll into a class. Anyway, for the musically inclined out there, especially for those into the sax, you can check out Vandoren Reeds for great deals. Come to think of it, if I learn an instrument, it would might as well be a wind instrument, why not? I actually enjoy its music. It soothes me especially when on long drives. My dad would always pop in classical saxophone or jazz music and I would enjoy it. It is something I look for whenever I am in his car on Sundays to Church.

Distraction

noreply@blogger.com (Vanniedosa) — Wed, 04 Apr 2012 07:53:00 +0000

Been really a bad day for me. For one, the heat is crazy it's making me extra short-tempered. I've been snapping at the wrong people and work has been compromised. Plus, our internet connection is acting up making me extra cranky by the minute. Last day of work + cramming + humidity + slow internet is not a great combination. Then - people keep on posting in the twitter and facebook and wherever that they are off headed somewhere fun and fabulous! I am so so so jealous. So to get my mind off all of this - I decided to look at these funny tshirts and decide which one I will use to strangle whoever disturbs me one more time! Joke. I am kidding. It's a joke =) These are actually really fun shirts and a bit PG 18 so it would be a perfect for your brothers, friends or boyfriends. Just keep it far away from Mom and your all set.

Theresian

noreply@blogger.com (Vanniedosa) — Wed, 04 Apr 2012 06:41:00 +0000

With all the crazy stories going around about my alma mater - Saint Theresa's College Cebu, let me just say:

Don't believe what you read in the papers. Those are just the tip of the iceberg. I guess I want to defend the nuns and the institution since a lot are saying bad things about them when in fact, the issue is they were trying to guide the girls properly by giving them a fair sanction (they still graduated people!) but this was blown up to epic proportions that the kids (16!) might think that they didn't do anything wrong when in fact they made a mistake and it is just right for them to be punished.

Yogitoes

noreply@blogger.com (Vanniedosa) — Fri, 23 Mar 2012 09:21:00 +0000

A friend of mine has started to be a Yoga instructor and I am very interested to join! Of course, my friend JR and I have been having a hard time finding the perfect time for us to join. He works in a call center and is off on Fridays and Saturdays. It would be perfect for us to go on a Saturday afternoon, the session is for 1 hour and a half only but then we always find ourselves having other commitments! I guess its best we do this on a weekday - after work hours. I hope to buy a yoga mat and then like a sign (that I should exercise and try a healthy lifestyle!) I found these wonderfully cool yogitoes big mat towel. According to the site, "Yogitoes towels are a perfect tool to help your clients stay safe and dry in class. These super absorbent towels not only prevent slipping by using 100% silicone, but they are also thick enough to absorb sweat during class. Used as a towel over a regular yoga mat, or even as a yoga mat itself."

They accept paypal. Goodie!

Friday Fill-Ins

noreply@blogger.com (Vanniedosa) — Fri, 23 Mar 2012 08:53:00 +0000

Sorry about there being no post last week...my sweet dog Max left us last Monday and I didn't have the heart to post the fill-ins. And...here we go!

1. Welcome SUMMER SUN, THIS SIMPLY MEANS WE HAVE TO GO TO THE BEACH.
2. THE NEWS ABOUT JOSHUA'S ACCELERATION and JUMP TO GRADE1 FROM KINDER1 makes me jump for joy.
3. There's a GOOD THING ABOUT MY WISDOM TOOTH BEING EXTRACTED - IT GAVE ME THE REASON TO EAT ALL THE ICE CREAM I LIKE!
4. TOOTHLESS BABY SMILE is the thing I love most about BABIES.
5. Eyes ARE IMPORTANT. I NEVER KNEW HOW IT'S SIGNIFICANCE UNTIL I LOST MY 20-20 VISION.
6. MY 29TH is what I'm eagerly awaiting.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to PLAYING DRAW SOMETHING WITH MY FRIENDS, tomorrow my plans include GOING TO THE DENTIST TO HAVE THE SUTURE OUT AND GYMBOREE WITH JACOB and Sunday, I want to REST AND HAVE DINNER WITH MIA AND THE SCREWED CREW!

Zero Interest on Jewelry

noreply@blogger.com (Vanniedosa) — Thu, 22 Mar 2012 10:08:00 +0000

My hubby is a simple man. So simple that he does not like to wear watches even. However, he likes to accessorize by wearing earings. He has piercings which he got a little after we got married. At one time, I was window shopping for Diamond Earrings for men as an option for an anniversary gift. However, I really can't afford a real one for now. I wonder if he won't mind a version not quite real but still a precious stone nonetheless. Speaking of diamonds, I was salivating recently since there was a 30% sale on jewelry in my favorite mall plus they accept credit card payments for 12 months with no interest!!!

Interesting.

Tempting.

We'll see.♥

My Little Gradeschooler

noreply@blogger.com (Vanniedosa) — Thu, 22 Mar 2012 09:26:00 +0000

Proud doesn't even begin to explain how I feel.

My son whose just 5years old and 8months passed the Kuhlmann-Anderson Test (KAT) and is moving up to Grade 1 this June.

I was hesitant to accelerate him initially becuase he is too small (smallest in his batch) and I feel he is still too young for gradeschool. However, if he seems ready and he is at par with the k2 students then why not?

Proud mom right here.

K to 12

noreply@blogger.com (Vanniedosa) — Mon, 12 Mar 2012 02:15:00 +0000

If all goes well, Joshua will be entering Grade 1 this coming school year. Like most 6 year olds he will skip K2 and proceed to Grade 1 where he will be under DepEd's K + 12 program. The prigram which will be underway for the first time in SY 2012-2013. It is to my understanding that under the K+12 plan, Grades 1 to 7, for school children aged 6 to 12 years old will be the elementary level. Grades 8 to 10 will be the Junior High School Level. Grades 11 to 12 will be the “specialized High School” or “Junior College. The specialized hs will equip the kids will skills needed for them to apply for jobs even withough college education.

But first he has to pass the test and pass the evaluation by the teacher. I am crossing my fingers on this one - while I am scared of the thought of having a gradeschooler in June, I don't want Joshua to fail only to learn all his peers are accelerated and he is not.

...anyway, this Friday will be their culminating activity and like last year, the kids are going to dance and dress up like little doctors, chefs and fire fighters. They are going to say the line,"when I grow up I want to be a ____" and they dress the part ofcourse. I wanted Joshua to say he wanted to be a taekwondo master since he has an outfit for that already, even a chef since I know where to find authentic chef wear, but no - he wanted to be a soldier! For weeks I've tried to persuade him against it but no such luck. He still wants to be a soldier and now he wants a shot gun to go with it. Eeep. My dad, who is into guns nowadays, readily agreed to buying the toy gun himself. I am still against this whole gun thing so we've reached an agreement. A water gun instead of a toy gun.

Jessica Does Whitney

noreply@blogger.com (Vanniedosa) — Mon, 12 Mar 2012 01:36:00 +0000

Jessica Sanchez is the one to look out for in this season's American Idol. Just listen to her sing Whitney Houston's "I Will Always Love You" and you just can't help agree that her version is flawless.

Hope she keeps it up!

Climate crazy.

noreply@blogger.com (Vanniedosa) — Wed, 07 Mar 2012 08:35:00 +0000

While the husband is enjoying(?) a much colder weather in Norway these days, we are experiencing the complete opposite! While he is buying new sets of heated clothing we are busy planning for trips to the beach. Amazing how different considering we only have a 7-hr difference (6 if we don't count DST)

I love summer because it means, no school and the beach but that doesn't mean I love the heat that comes with it!

Yesterday, it was reported to be 34 degrees celcius! Now, it's only 31 but the scorching heat is giving me a headache. Not to mention the fact that I have an actual headache from 2 of my wisdom teeth that has yet to be extracted. The pain and the money needed for that alone will give me a heat stroke. Ack.

Anyway! the message is simple I guess, Mother nature is trying to tell us to take care of the environment. We live in one Earth. We should be responsible enough to take care of it. Reuse, reduse, recycle everyone =)

American Idol: Jessica Sanchez

noreply@blogger.com (Vanniedosa) — Tue, 06 Mar 2012 08:05:00 +0000

I have stopped watching American Idol but then again - I saw that a Fil-Mexican girl has gotten in the top 12.

Yey for Jessica Sanchez.

I hope she wins this or at least she makes it to the top 3.