Hello Again!

Hey, everyone!! 

It's been a long time that I have not posted anything here on the blog. I got so busy with life and a lot has happened in the last 3 years! 

Imagine? My last post was in July 2018, which is our Father's day celebration (that happened in June but posted in July, lol!) So funny! Anyway, I was browsing through Instagram where I saw all the posts I made in the past. It seems that I also stopped posting on Instagram for some reason. My last post was in June 2021. While going through some posts, it reminded me why I was blogging before. I don't even care if anyone will read the blog, but I do it for my own purpose. I want to rekindle old thoughts, memories, etc. And honestly, it was so fun reading all of it. It reminds me of how far I have come, the good and the bad, and everything else in between. I was also reminded that this is what I do good. I love sharing my thoughts, I love talking, I never get tired of talking. Haha. 

So, as I said, in the last three years, a lot happened. I don't even know where to start so bear with me as I organize my thoughts. As you know, I am not a very organized person. 

I think one of the major things that happened in our family is having another bundle of joy. Yes! We had another baby boy. He was born on the 4th of June 2019 via VBAC (Vaginal Birth After C-section)

He's 2 years old at the moment and is our little kulit!! :) 

Our New Year's Eve 2021

Another thing is that I finally had the courage to leave the corporate world! It was a blessing in disguise actually. I left a month before the pandemic hits our country. Now, I am working as a Virtual Assistant for my clients for a year and a half. This changed our lives for the better and I am forever grateful! 

Vince's first birthday in June 2020

Seriously, I was really looking forward to 2020 just because I like the numbers, lol! I have so much planned for that year like getting married, celebrating the boys' 7th and 1st birthday but it didn't happen because of the pandemic. We celebrated at home with some family members and this made me realize that we actually don't need a big celebration. :)

This pandemic hit us really hard but be thankful that you're healthy and thriving despite all trials this year. :) I will probably post more life updates in the coming days. I'll just have to gather some photos left and right. Talk soon! 

What to do when another Mom hits your kid?

This happened two weeks ago. I actually had no intention to blog about it but this blog became a part of my motherhood journey so bakit hindi?

So here's what happened.

I let Jami play outside while I am doing household chores. We usually make sure na meron yang bantay when playing outside of the house. Alam nyo naman din ang panahon ngayon, mahirap na mawalan ng anak so either Daryl or Nanay or me would come with him sa labas ng bahay while he's playing with his friends.

That day, since meron nga akong ginagawa sa loob ng bahay (defrost ng ref dahil sobrang kapal na ng yelo), Jami was left outside playing with the son of our neighbor. They live couple of house away sa amin but since I know that my aunt is outside too, mejo naging kampante naman ako na matitingnan tingnan sya.

When my aunt called me to tell me na sunduin ko na raw si Jami because they went a little farther and dun na sa daanan ng mga sasakyan, I went out para sabihan na pumasok na dahil gumagabi na rin. When I came out of our gate, I saw them on their way back. Sobrang happy nilang dalawa and they were just laughing about their adventures. When they came malapit sa akin, I said:

Me: "Jami wag na kayo dun sa malayo!" (with a mejo malumanay pa rin na voice).

But since they were so carried away sa paglalaro, they didn't notice me.

Both of them running passed by me. The next thing I saw was the playmate's Mommy holding a thin stick pointing at her own kid. Pinapagalitan nya.

Mommy: "Diba sabi ko sayo wag kang pupunta dun?" while pointing the stick to her child's face.

While these happen, si Jami na walang pakialam continued playing and also pointing the gun on his playmate. This gun was a little long although hindi naman tumatama sa muka ng playmate nya, he was pretending na binabaril nya yung kalaro nya.

The next thing I know, pinalo ng thin stick ng Mommy yung arms ni Jami (na may hawak ng gun pointing at the playmate's face) and said "Wag mong tutukan sa mukha" with a matching angry face.

It took 3 seconds for me to process everything that's happening at that time. After mag sink in sa utak ko, I felt all the blood in my body went up to my head. I bet the Mom didn't see me standing there at nakita ko kung anong ginawa nya.

After 3 longest second of my life, feeling nabastos and so hurt, I called Jami angrily. Malayo na kasi sya dahil after sya paluin nung Mom, the playmate and him ran dun sa may tapat nung house nung kalaro nya. I was so mad talaga! When the Mom heard me, she looked back and we both looked at each other. She might have been scared kasi sa tingin ko pa lang parang sinasaksak ko na sya! Hahahah! Kidding. But yeah, it felt that way.

That Mom started walking away after namin magkatinginan for a moment. She went back sa tapat ng bahay nila still holding that thin wood without looking back from where I stood. Because I was so mad, I walked towards Jami to make him go home. I passed by the Mom without looking at her but I was really furious at that time. I held Jami sa braso and told him we are going home. Jami still seemed happy and his playmate without them knowing the situation. Lumapit kami sa playmate (whose a little younger than Jami) to give back his toy gun.

Me: "(Child's name) ayan na yung toy mo!" Hindi ko naman sya sinigawan. I didn't even look at him basta ang importante naibalik na ang gamit nya. Immediately, lumapit yung Mom to where we were standing. Natakot siguro sya for his son na saktan ko or baka gantihan ko ang anak nya.

Nung napadaan kami sa tapat ng group ng mga Nanay sa neighborhood na madalas kakwentuhan ng naka encounter kong Mom, I told Jami "Bakit hinahayaan mong sinasaktan ka ng iba?!" Although I know Jami won't understand, pinarinig ko talaga just so these group could let that Mom know na nakita ko ang ginawa nya. I know they did kasi they were looking at us.

When we got home, nanlalamig talaga ako and I felt kulang pa ang ginawa ko. I should have confronted the parent angrily to let her know na sobrang mali ang ginawa nya! I should have fought her dahil maling mali ang ginawa nya in hurting my son - in front of me! I was thinking of going sa barangay to file a complaint but I begged off. I was so furious pinapagalitan ko si Jami that the next apartment could hear all my frustrations. Wala akong pakealam kung pag uusapan nila ako! All I know was, makakasakal talaga ako ng mga oras na yun.

Anyway, I didn't do anything. I told Daryl about it and he said he'll talk to that Mom daw. I told Nanay about it the next day and she got really mad too. Of course who wouldn't? We don't want our kids to be hurt, more so being hurt because someone we dont know hurt them. Ang mas malala pa is someone who are not part your family! Yung mga taong wala naman karapatang gawin yun sa anak mo?!

I never hurt kids that are not my own. Mga pamangkin ko? Maybe napapagalitan ko or napapatulan ko but that was when I was younger and had no kids. I don't know the feeling just yet. When I became a mom, when another kid hurt Jami, I make him go home instead. Nilalayo ko na lang sya sa mga batang ganun rather than putting my anger on another kid. All they know is to play so they will never understand it the way we do so bakit kailangan mong saktan? Ako kasi ang rule ko, kung may problema kayo sa anak ko, tell me. Isumbong sa akin dahil ako ang didisiplina at kakausap sa kanya. Keep telling me kung hindi nagbabago. I will never allow anyone to hit my son! Sabihin sakin ang problema and I'll fix it with Jami. Hindi kailangan pagbuhatan ng kamay.

After that incident, I never saw the mom in the neighborhood. Maybe hindi ko lang nate tyempuhan or baka tinataon din na wala ako sa labas. Although hindi naman ako tambay sa labas dahil hindi ko ugali yun. I'd rather stay inside the house and do chores or cook, or watch TV. Last Sunday when I allowed Jami to play outside while raining, pinaligo ko sa ulan with another kid, I saw them playing in front of the house of monster Mom again. I was looking from afar until I saw the gate opened tapos sumilip yung Mom. Tiningnan ata sina Jami because they were collecting water galing dun sa alulod nila. When she saw me, she immediately closed the gate again. I was thinking na baka pagagalitan yung mga bata but I was there so hindi na lang nya ginawa.

I decided to keep quite after that incident not because hindi ko kayang ipagtanggol ang anak ko, I just don't want na magkaron ng kaaway sa labas ng bahay. I let it pass but will never allow it the second time na makita ko. Mas okay na yung sya yung may atraso sa akin kesa nagpadala ako sa galit ko that time and do something really bad. Now I see na sya na rin naman ang umiiwas sa akin. Regardless kung may mali ang anak ko or hindi nya gusto na tinututukan ng toy gun sa mukha ang anak nya, she should never hit anyone dahil bad yun. Sayang, mukang kasundo pa naman ni Jami yung anak nya but I will never allow Jami to play with this kid again. I actually spoke to Jami that afternoon and asked him not to play with that kid anymore

I am just really hoping na hindi na lang maulit. I got so paranoid thinking na baka kapag pumapasok si Jami sa loob ng gate nila before when he's calling his playmate eh pinapalayas nya or baka binabatukan. Diba? We will never know because she seem to do those things kapag walang nakatingin. Malas lang nya na nakita ko ang ginawa nya at nabuking ko sya. Even now na naaalala ko yung incident, I still feel a little anger. Feeling ko kasi hindi ko sya napag sabihan pero ayun nga, I am just letting it go for the moment. Wag ko na lang makikita ulit na gawin nya.=) .

Anyhow, it's been raining from the last couple of days. Keep warm and safe everyone! =)

Jami's Nursery Moving Up and Recognition Day

Jami finally finished his Nursery year. He graduated on March 22nd, held at Cecile's Restaurant in Las Pinas. The school he went to was a small pre-school in our community so they don't have grounds/auditorium to held the event to. Their graduation fee was Php 1,900 inclusive of the kids meal after the event. I found it really steep actually since I don't remember paying this much during my time. Syempre nga naman, sa public school ako all my life. Anyway, I was told by a friend that she paid the same amount for her son during graduation so baka yun nga ang standard for private schools.

I took a leave from work just to witness this special day! It was a good thing that it was Daryl's off from work too so we had the chance to go together with no problem. I intended to arrive early since it's our fist time. The invitation stated that the event will start by 1pm, ni hindi man lang kami nakapag lunch. We bought one meal from a fast food nearby and waited for the event to start.

I am glad there were seats allocated for parents. Hindi nagkakagulo in finding a seat plus, walang mawawalan ng chairs. Each student were given two seats for their parents so if they brought additional person, they will be standing in the back unless there were seats that the venue could provide pa.

The ceremony started 30 minutes after everyone else settled down. Kids were seated in front while us parents were at the back. Kakatawa lang, I told Daryl na hindi ako sanay na nakaupo sa likod or middle because I am so used on my last name being letter A so I am always in front. Hahah! While waiting for the program to start, the teachers allowed the parents to take pictures on the stage.

I realized na mejo mahirap pala if you're a family of three no? It's either me and Jami on a photo, or Daryl and Jami. Challenging ang pag take ng photo with us 3 in it.

With teacher Jess

With Ms. Anne

The graduation ceremony started, giving out special awards and diplomas. I wasn't really expecting Jami to be the class first honor because he's really playful. During their practice days na sinamahan ko sya, I noticed that the teacher often calls him because he's playing with his seatmates. I think he somehow needs improvement on being quiet and focused haha! Kaya okay na okay na sa akin ang pagiging top 2 nya.

It was also a surprise to me and Daryl that he managed to get the 'Best in Mathematics' on their batch. Most of the time kasi, madalas kong ma ituro ang reading and language subject than Science and Math. I came to a realization that he wasn't that interested in Science as of yet. Maybe in the future I could review him more in Science especially in Math if dun pala sya mas nag eexcel.

Class' Salutatorian

Accepted his first diploma

 

One of the happiest day!

After the ceremony, the kids had one set of meal. Then off we went to SM Southmall to celebrate this special day. We decided to eat in Classic Savory and ordered their family meal. Super filling and budget friendly. We even had take home food after.

Family Picture muna bago kumain.

Set Meal 1 - Half Chicken, Corn and Crab Soup, Sweet and sour Fish Fillet, Pancit and 4 iced drinks.

I didn't know the feeling until I was there. Ganito pala ang makapag pa graduate ng anak. Super sarap ng pakiramdam. I was joking Daryl na nakapag patapos na kami. Hahahah! One year down, 17 years to go! Whew! Kelangan pa ng madaming madaming pasensya at pera.

Dear Jami,

Anak! Congratulations! You made it! Pa bonus mo na lang sa amin ni Daddy that you graduated with flying colors! I am the happiest Mommy and for sure Daddy feels the same. This is the result of our late night study time. When Mommy gets home from work, tayo naman ang maghaharap to check what you did at school and if you have assignments, or if exam/long quizzes, nag rereview tayo. Bale wala ang puyat and pagod. Pinalitan mo ng dalawang medal anak. Thank you and I hope you study well in the future. It wasn't your medals that defines you for who you are so don't feel the pressure. Just as long as I know you're doing your best, okay tayo jan, anak. We love you so much and we promise to work even harder. May God bless you and hear your prayers, my lovey! 

Love,
Mommy and Daddy

Jami's First Piggy Bank

Was saving money an easy job for you? If not, then read on. =)

Last year was another milestone for Jami as he has finally learned the importance of piggy bank and saving money. Was it easy? No. I have to constantly remind him what the money is for and tell him he can't buy new toys until piggy bank is full.

The Struggle

When Jami was only 2 months old, he was given an aguinaldo which I decided to save and put it on a plastic coin bank. A day after, he was rushed to emergency room due to Pneumonia. Since then, I heard that saving coins on a piggy bank was a bad idea. Para daw may pinaghahandaan kang sickness or a tragedy or problem etc. I have to get the money and spend it. Four months after, I opened a BDO Junior savings account for him. This way, I could put all his money for safe keeping. Unfortunately, I have to close it out last year because I have decided to put this money on my small business and make it double in a short period of time. Yes it did but eventually have to spend it somewhere else. Note: hindi sa luho. 

In my growing up years, I have never realized the importance of saving. It wasn't instill to my bones so it didn't become a part of me at all. I had money? I'll spend it to something I really want. Para bang hindi ako nakakatulog when I know I have money and I have to spend it or else I won't be happy at all. It was such a sad reality that's why I am so glad that I had so many realization last year. I learned a lot and I knew kung saan ako nagkulang and how to fix it.  

The Concept of Saving

Fast forward to July 2017, I decided to start teaching Jami the concept of piggy bank.I tried a different approach. When Nanay saw that we were serious in saving, he bought Jami a red piggy bank. Hinahayaan ko syang mag hulog ng money so he will feel the responsibility and joy of saving. Below are the two things I thought of before we start.

1. Goal - It's very important you know what you are saving for. In his case, I asked him if he wants a bicycle. He said yes so I always tell him that his piggy bank, once full, could buy him a bike. With a goal in mind, we know what the money is for which kept both of us motivated to continue putting coins.
2. Delayed Gratification - This is to remind him that we don't have enough money to buy a bike so he has to wait until the bank is full. Although he feels sad when I he asks for something but piggy isns't full yet, I tried my best to encourage him that piggy is getting heavier and will be full in no time. Madali pa naman mauto so I didn't have any problem so far. Haha!

I also gave these instructions to Jami:

• He should put all 1 peso coin only. Whenever he sees one lying around the house or if someone gave him money, it should go straight to the coin bank. The only downside is, kapag nakakita nga sya ng coins, ilalagay nya regardless if sukli ko ba yun or coins ng daddy nya. There were times na when he see a wallet and found that it has coins inside, kukunin at ihuhulog sa piggy nya. Hahaha! It was cute but it was not right so I told him he has to ask permission to the owner of the coins if it's okay na ihulog yun sa piggy bank nya. Lol!

• DON'T ALLOW ANYONE TO OPEN HIS PIGGY BANK. Yan! I told him don't let daddy get money on his piggy hahaha! True enough, when he wants new toy tapos nagta tantrums kay Nanay, he will be told na he doesn't have money but he can get on his piggy bank. Then he will remember that he cannot open his piggy bank yet so shut up na sya after. =D

• His piggy bank, once full could buy him his own bike. Whenever he asks for a new toy or when he wants something, I always remind him that his piggy bank isn't full so he can't buy it yet. Except those times that he was doing a good job in school, pinagbibigyan namin to buy what he wants. Solely his piggy bank is dedicated to be opened in December. 

 The Opening Day

December 17, 2017 was when we decided to open his piggy bank kahit hindi pa puno. It was halfway full pa lang but I opted to count it to check his progress and to be able to buy him what he wants for the holiday.

In total, Jami saved a total of Php 2,260 including money gifts for his birthday. The same day, we went to Robinson's Las Pinas to exchange the coins and get rebates however, their budget of giving rebates were all used up the previous day so we had no choice but to exchange it without any rebates at all. We have no choice, ang bigat magdala ng madaming coins because we brought along my own 10 pesos challenge. Last minute, Jami decided he wants to buy a new toy. He has a thing with cars so when he saw one with tracks, he liked it and took it home. We spent Php1,000 so he was left with Php1,300. I am thinking of opening a new bank account for him where he could go to the bank and put his savings there by himself. 

Realization

You know I realize, hindi naman masama yung nag iipon ka ng coins at home. Sickness come regardless kung may ipon ka o wala. It's actually better if you have something saved at home for cases like that kesa naman you believed na masama and didn't save then you get sick diba? I want Jami to learn as early as now the importance of saving his money so he won't learn it the hard way like I did. I am just hoping that we will be consistent in doing it. I know I have to be the best person to set an example so help me God.

For this year, Nanay bought Jami another piggy bank which was a lot smaller compared to the previous one. Although I prefer the bigger one so it will take time to get full and will be very timely in December to open, I am thankful he gave Jami a new one. We are almost halfway and probably just buy a new one when we filled this out earlier than December. Our new goal was to really, really, really buy a bike na daw talaga. haha! Okay fine.

This year will be an #Amazing2018 for us. Let's see by the end of the year how our saving goals worked out. How about you guys? Share nyo naman saving strategy nyo for your kids! =)

Nursery School Activities

Couple of months ago, we joined several school activities including Buwan ng Wika and Nutrition month. I felt this was a milestone for the both of us being me as the official Mommy of a school boy while Jami was a real school boy. Hahah!

May masabi lang. =D

Anyway, let me share with you our Nutrition Month celebration. They were asked to come on a costume based on the category given to their classroom or on P.E uniform with hat while mommies wear a color coded shirts like red for nurseries and yellow for kindergarten.

I had a hard time looking for a costume while too lazy to make one. Alam nyo naman I wasn't a very artistic type or person at wala talaga akong ka art art sa katawan. It wasn't also a competition na may mananalo so I didn't exert to much effort. We ended up buying a hat and added fresh vegetables on top. Hat costs Php 50 then Php10 for the veggie. Our classroom was to represent the Glow food which was mainly the veggies and fruits.

We had a short parade around the subdivision. This was our first event for this school year and I think was such a good experience after all. The kids were all sweaty after the walk but their teachers prepared some refreshments.

Nagulat lang ako since some students had a donut for grow food. I wonder if donut was really part of nutritious food ha?! Lol.

Couple of weeks later, we were then asked to wear a costume for their celebration of Buwan ng Wika plus school foundation day. The kids had a short dance presentation to perform in front of the crowd which mainly were the parents and students.

Since it was Nanay who accompanies Jami to school, I don't have an idea which music piece neither the dance steps that they are to perform. Nanalig na lang talaga ako na alam ni Jami ang sayaw nila. I was asking him to dance in front of me and show me the steps pero hindi ko magets yung sayaw talaga. Lol! I ended up letting it go and just wait for the day of performance.

To my surprise, sumayaw naman si Jami. The only thing was, poker face lang talaga at walang ka giliw-giliw sa pagsasayaw. Hahaha! It was fun watching him dancing. I was so proud kahit gulo-gulo ang steps ng sayaw nya. I have accepted that he wasn't really good in dancing because his Daddy wasn't anyway. Hahaha! By the way, if you wish to watch the video of their dance, you may check my IG feed on the left side of the blog or search @its_mommy_jen.

Our costume was borrowed from my nephew. I just bought a camisa de chino for Php120 in Baclaran. I bought size 10 since his undershirt was a little bigger for him, naisip ko baka sakto lang. Wrong! It was too small. I went back to the stall and had it exchanged to a size bigger than what I bought originally. It fits perfectly this time and could still be used next year in case we need it again.

We also joined our first field trip which I will share on a separate post in the coming days. Sobrang dami ko na kasing backlogs. I hope I can finish them all as a fresh start in 2018! Can't wait for the new year. =)

Jami's School Achievement

There have been a lot of events in Jami's school in the past couple of months. We had Nutrition Month, Buwan ng Wika and Foundation Day and lastly, their field trip. I am so glad to be part of all these. I remember those are the usual school programs during my time and it was a good reminder now that I attend them not as the student but as a Mommy na! Emerged.. those good old days! Lol.

Anyway, during the first few weeks of school, I was really worried since Jami doesn't know anything about this new environment which I even blog here. Diba nga hindi naman kami nakapag prepare like going on a summer school? It was pure house training lang.

Fast forward to August, we had our fist quarter exam and long quizzes. I was so anxious we have to review every night on each subject they will take the next day. Good thing ganon na today because you can only focus on one subject unlike when I was a kid. Feeling ko sabay sabay lahat. Lol!

May pa exam na agad si teacher! 😱😱 #JamiAtSchool #JamiNursery1 #JamiMilestones #JamiSchoolSeries

A post shared by Jen Alipio (@its_mommy_jen) on Jul 19, 2017 at 6:00pm PDT

The result came out all perfect!! I can't believe it! I was only expecting at least some checks but Jami proved me wrong. When their card was handed out, he was ranked 4th place over 23 students in their classroom. I was so happy! Imagine our of 23 students, naka top 4 pa ang anak ko!

Couple of weeks back, we had our second quarter exam without any expectations again. Although I was kinda nervous ulit, hindi ko alam if enough ba ang reviews namin every night. When I came home one night, his exam papers were given. I was doing the happy dance inside seeing all papers with perfect scores. This time, yung exams nila were 1-25 to 30 items na unlike nung first quarter na mejo konti lang.

Then two weekends ago, I went to their school to get his card. When I arrived, sabi ng mga teachers if I have a phone with me because they have posted the ranking sa blackboard.

Si Jami namin na uuuuubod ng kulit sa classroom, nauuna sa pila pag uwian na, madaling ma distract kapag nagtawanan sina classmates join din sya. Pero.. nag uuwi ng perfect scores sa mga exams at nakasama sa top last time. Tapos ngayon, with High honors na, Anak?! Masyado mo naman ginalingan! #dwyanejames #Jamiatschool #jamiinnursery #jamischoolseries

A post shared by Jen Alipio (@its_mommy_jen) on Nov 17, 2017 at 7:12pm PST

Omaygad! My heart was pumping so hard!

Nag top 1 na sya!!!

The teachers were congratulating me. From top 4 to top 1? I cannot imagine really.

Now the challenge was to keep it that way. I always remind Jami to listen to teacher and ask questions if he doesn't understand something. Although the feedback that the teachers gave was very encouraging like Jami knows the answer and if he was asked by teacher, sumasagot agad. The only thing that we have to work on is his penmanship. Mejo mukang kinahig pa ng manok eh. Hahah!

Every weekend, we try our best to practice writing specially pag nakita kong bored sya in watching TV. I encourage him to practice and make him copy words na nakikita namin sa kung saan-saan. I think one thing that works for him is that, he looks forward to answering his books so that's what we use in reviewing his lessons. I also do my best to think of the things that he watches on TV, his favorite things or something he usually do so I can relate it to his lessons. In that way, mas natatandaan nya. Well, that's what I think and so far it's working naman.

Practice kami ng sulat! ☺️☺️ #dwyanejames #jamiatschool #jamischoolseries #jaminursery1

A post shared by Jen Alipio (@its_mommy_jen) on Oct 4, 2017 at 9:39pm PDT

Like last night, he showed me their activity tracing letter K. The writing is terrible pa rin so I asked the name of the picture which was a 'kettle'. He doesn't know daw. I told him it was the kettle which we use in the kitchen that makes sound when the water is boiling. Ayon, na gets na nya. Haha! When he hears the kettle sounds, sisigaw na yan "Mommy yung init" so he's very familiar with it. Hindi lang nya alam na kettle pala ang tawag dun. :D

I am looking forward to next quarter and hopefully ma-maintain ni Jami yung nasimulan na nya. As much as possible ayaw ko naman na ma pressure sya but I encourage him to study and improve everyday. When I get home from work, bago pa ako mag bihis, tinatanong ko na yan kung anong ginawa sa school tapos we will check his books and notebooks before I eat dinner. We have been doing that since the start of the year and Jami has improved a lot. He recognizes the books they used for the day so hindi na ako hirap mag hanap.

Honestly, I didn't imagine Jami to do good in school. Sobrang malikot nga kasi sya, paikot-ikot sa room and sometimes hindi nagpa participate sa group works. But then, those are the things that he does at the start of the school. Since July kasi, parents are not allowed inside the compound so I am not sure if his behavior has improved too. I guess it did because he had high grades this second semester. I am praying that he will continue the best things that he is doing now. It really brings honor to the family.

Good job to our baby! We love you!

Jami's 4th Birthday Celebration

It took a long while before I post another entry ano? Mejo naging busy lang ako setting family goals, hehe. I also re-opened my small time business so during free time at home, yun lang ang madalas kong gawin. I have no time to check things online kaya during office hours, mejo busy ako kakacheck! Lol!

Joke lang. =D

Syempre nagwo-work ako! Hahaha.

Anyway, one of the things that I look forward this year was Jami's 4th birthday. Since he started going to school, I know he got to at least celebrate one birthday at school. It was a perfect timing they still have regular school on the day of his birthday (fell on a Monday) but wasn't doing too much school stuff anymore because they are about to go on semester break.

It was Nanay whom I asked to speak to the teacher about the plan. His classmates have been celebrating birthdays in the school too, almost every month meron, minsan twice to thrice a month pa ang may birthday. Jami wanted to celebrate his birthday at school too since nakikita nga nya that his classmates sing happy birthday to the celebrant. Eh bida-bida tong anak kong to kaya gusto nya din ganun! Hahah. Last minute, Jami wanted to celebrate his birthday at home na lang kaya lang, nakapag notify na kami sa school.

I have decided to order Jollibee meal the night before his birthday. Since we were on a tight budget, I only ordered what I think the kids could eat in school. I don't want to go all out since we still have to allot a budget to celebrate at home. We had Jollibee Spaghetti and Yum burger which cost me more than Php 2,000 for 23 students plus 3 Jollibee Spaghetti with Chicken for his teacher. The crew I spoke to doesn't recommend to add fries, shanghai or even drinks dahil madaling mag lapse yung food. I actually ordered exact number of meals only, walang pasobra dahil may food pa naman sa bahay for lunch.

I have paid the orders in full so I only have to pick them up early next day. Our pick up time was 9:30am and the food has to be ready at 9:20am. It was a breeze placing such amount of order in Jollibee Casimiro.  Please bear in mind that only orders Php3,000 and up can be delivered for free. We arrived just in time and I am really glad that the food was ready so we didn't waste any time. The party will start at 10am and I want to be there earlier than that. On our way back to the school, I saw a local store that sells Dan Erics ice cream so I ordered 28pcs of regular ice cream in a cup for 10/each, bought Zesto tetra pack the night before for their drinks and an 8x8 dedication cake from Red Ribbon for candle blowing. I was really looking to buy a custom-made cake for Jami but I have decided last minute to buy local cakes.

When I was asked to go inside, we prepared the cake and his classmates sang Happy birthday song for Jami. I can see that he was overwhelmed and a little shy since nasa harap sya ng classroom! OMG, I was really happy kasi I never experienced that during my school days. Mga RK (rich-kid) lang talaga yung may kaya nyan before. Hahaha! We then distributed the food to the kids with the help of the teachers.

It was a very simple birthday party for a short period of time but the happiness it brought me, Daryl and Jami are beyond measure. For someone who didn't get the chance to do something like that, it feels surreal! hahaha OA lang. But yeah, thinking about it now makes me feel happy, - for Jami. I am so happy Daryl and I made this happen together. He did absent himself from work just to help me out and witness this new milestone for Jami. =)

After the school party, my sister and Sab arrived. They played for a little while and ate what's left in school (they had 3 absences) kasi wala pang food. I called Ambers in Las Pinas for delivery but because of the volume of orders they received that day, they can accommodate and deliver mine at 1pm pa daw. I agreed na lang since it will also take time if we order over the counter sa branch nila. I bought another cake so Jami could blow one at home. Yan lang naman ang dreams ng batang yan, mag blow ng candle hahaha!

I have been asking him the whole day if he's happy and he kept on saying "Yes". That's what's important naman diba? Ako, I don't care if we don't have so many visitors as long as our families are there to celebrate with us. As long as Jami's happy, his Daddy and I are happy.

Dear Jami,

You've grown up to be a super kulit but sweet and smart boy! I am really surprised how you do academically. I know we have very limited time to do "study time" at home and we can only do it if it's exam week but you never failed to do your best and understand your lessons. I feel pressured actually sa dami ng perfect scores mo, I don't know why! hahaha. Joke lang naman kasi Anak yung sinabi ko sayo na "gusto kong umakyat ng stage sa graduation mo eh". Hahaha! I was just kidding and was only trying to challenge you but yeah, you're doing it! Hindi ko nga alam kung naintindihan mo ba that's why I am so surprised every time you come home with perfect exams. I want you to keep doing it. Don't be afraid of change and that always try your best in everything that you do. I know you still have a lot of things to learn and I am quite unsure at times if what I am doing is right. I am praying so hard that God help us to guide you and mold you to a better person in the future. I want you to reach for your dreams but never ever afraid of failing. Just keep trying! I love you my baby! You are the best thing that ever happened to Daddy and Mommy and we couldn't ask for more. 

Again, Happy Birthday and wishing you good health, be smart and a good, loving heart. I love you! =)

Jami at School

You know I am really excited with this new milestone.

Jami is now officially a student! Hahaha! How I wish I could bring him to school everyday but I can't. We have a long way to go before I can become a stay-at-home Mom.

Our first week at school was a struggle. Jami doesn't participate in singing and discussion. He loves to run around, minsan humihiga pa sa sahig or worst, binubuhat ang mga upuan. Of course I was kinda sad and thought na baka masyado ko syang minadali. At first mejo pine pressure ko sya ng slight to listen to teacher etc. Then I felt bad kasi nga first week pa lang talaga ng school eh. Hahah!

I realized that I would have to let him be. Masyado pang mahilig mag play probably because the environment is new to him. We never get a chance to join a summer school since it's not being offered by the school he went to. Although I am confident that he knows the basic and can socialize when he feels like it, I am still worried that he might have an overwhelming feeling regarding this new experience.

I am just really glad that all of my worries was just a first time mommy scares. I am truly confident now that we are on track. After a month of going to school, ako pala ang mao-overwhelm with the amount of things that Jami knows. They did plenty of activities in their books and I am so proud to see perfect scores most of the time. So far, he had 2 mistakes over all activities they did. Sabi ni Nanay sobra naman daw ako maka push to make his scores perfect. But for me, mag aachieve ka na lang, bakit yung hindi pa perfect? If hindi naman maging perfect, just as long as he did his best, then we could try again next time. For me, I want Jami to learn to have a higher goal and achieve it than accept mediocre things when he knows he could have done more. I want him to continuously challenge himself. =)

Needs improvement daw kami sa pagko-color 😂😂 pero happy naman na bumabawi sa ibang bagay ang baby namin! 😁😁 #JamiAtSchool #JamiMilestones #JamiNursery1 #jamikulit #JamiSchoolSeries

A post shared by Jen Alipio (@its_mommy_jen) on Jul 13, 2017 at 7:28pm PDT

We had our first exam week last week and I was really shocked na may pa exam na agad si teacher. Haha! I felt slightly nervous because exam na yun eh. I know Moms have tendencies to protect na kung pwedeng tayo na lang ang gumawa pero syempre we can't always help them. A lot of things should be done by themselves and it's necessary to train them this young.

In just a month ang dami na agad nilang na i discuss including the living and non-living things.

May pa exam na agad si teacher! 😱😱 #JamiAtSchool #JamiNursery1 #JamiMilestones #JamiSchoolSeries

A post shared by Jen Alipio (@its_mommy_jen) on Jul 19, 2017 at 6:00pm PDT

From time to time, nag rereview din kami ng dinidiscuss nila sa school and everyday when I come home from work, I always ask him on what they did for the day. Automatic na din yan that he'll get his bag to show me his books.

I know we have a lot more to learn but seeing him improve really moves me. Ang sarap pala ng feeling that they have take homes from all those experiences. Last weekend, I asked him if happy ba sya sa school and he said Yes. I also asked the names of his friends. He mentioned Brandon and Iya daw.

Anyhow, in the coming days we will have our nutrition month parade and I'll be the one to go with him sa parade. Syempre stage mother tayo ng slight eh. hehe! I just need a costume for it or else we'll go with a hat with Glow Food then P.E uniform na lang. =D

Kayo ba? What are your school activities so far?

Our Jami Started Going to School

The year 2017 offered a lot of things to us. It's a combination of good and bad but still, I am so thankful that we can manage everything.

One of the good things that happened halfway thru the year was Jami going to school for the first time.

I am so excited!!!!!!!

I even planned to save a certain amount for a starter but something came up so we didn't keep that same amount after all. I was sad pero I am so grateful for our families for helping us throughout.

Despite of the struggle, it didn't stop us to continue our new milestone!

Getting ready for school!! Ganto pala ang feeling ng Nanay na first time papasok sa school ang anak. Matatae ka na lang sa excitement at gastos. 😂😂😂🤑🤑😭😭🤢🤢 #JamiAtSchool #JamiNursery1 #JamiMilestones #imjMommyDuties

A post shared by Jen Alipio (@its_mommy_jen) on Jun 17, 2017 at 12:23am PDT

Jami is 3 years old, turning 4 this year so I have decided to send him to school. He was a candidate for Nursery 1 since he didn't get any school experience before. I tried looking for schools that offers a summer program for incoming Nursery student but most of the schools around our place don't have one. =(

How we chose the School

Quite frankly, I didn't have much option because we have limited amount of money. I don't even want to spend a fortune at this early stage so I was looking for a school that can give us quality education without creating havoc to our wallets.

My qualifications for choosing the school were:

• Near our House - This is very important for me since I don't want Jami to get tired of commuting this early. Besides, with all the bad things that happens everywhere, nakaka trauma so gusto ko yung tipong walking distance lang from home. It's cost cutting somehow since I don't want to pay for tuition fee then pay for Jami's fare pa.  

• Good Education Background - Of course we wanted to send our kids to school na hindi naman sila pababayaan and sure na meron matututuhan. I also want a school where there will be more than 1 teacher in a classroom so they can attend to each students' need.

• Not too Expensive - with all the private school that's coming here and there, you have to know which school will offer you quality but cheaper naman ng konti diba? I heard pre-schools in Makati charges 30k-40k for a Nursery student! Imagine?? I can't pay that much even maging installment pa. I know we want the best education for our kids but it doesn't mean I have to pay that much naman. Probably when Jami's in elementary, mejo ma accept ko pa ng mejo masakit sa dibdib at katawan. hahahaha! 

Those are the top 3 things that I am looking for so I started searching for schools near our place. I have an officemate who's a pre-school teacher before and I asked about some things to be mindful of. All along I have this 3 school that are all walking distance away.

The first school I have in mind is a really big school with college students na din meaning it was really expensive talaga, around 40k na din in total. The second school was nearer but it was a small school. They offered Pre-school only and they have one room for nursery and kinder with different schedule.The last one is a day care center pero tatawid pa ng highway and I was kinda 50-50 on that kasi ayaw ko nga ng tatawid ng highway. Nakakapraning kaya with all those big trucks and buses diba! You'll never know.

So ending, we choose school number 2. Although it was a small school, it's cheaper compared to school 1 and a lot closer to our home. Jami doesn't have to cross the highway and that I heard good reviews from other moms about the quality of education from school 2. Anyway, I don't want to send him to school na sobrang expensive tapos hindi ko naman kayang bayaran diba? Or yung hirap na hirap naman akong mag commit sa expenses. I am sure it wouldn't be a very nice experience especially for Jami when he has to stop going to school because we can't afford or he would not take exams because wala pa akong pera to pay for his tuition fee. That'll break my heart big time kaya dun lang kami sa kaya ng bulsa namin ni Daryl. Hehe!

Pasok na po kami sa school! 😂😂 Katabi ko na naman si teacher para di ako makalayas. 😂😂 #JamiAtSchool #JamiNursery1 #JamiMilestones #jamikulit

A post shared by Jen Alipio (@its_mommy_jen) on Jul 10, 2017 at 6:37pm PDT

During summer, I went there to pay the reservation fee and saw our neighbor's kid. He was enrolled in a 1-1 tutorial class that the teacher's offered for their students. I was surprised that our neighbor can read! Matanda lang sya ng more than a year kay Jami and he only started school last year pero nakakabasa na sya in tagalog! I was so surprised, naalala ko kasi parang grade 3 na ako natuto mag basa hahahahaha!

My big boy on his PE Uniform! 😍😍 Play lang daw sila ng toys kapag Friday. 😁😁 #JamiNursery1 #JamiAtSchool #JamiMilestones #imjMommyDuties

A post shared by Jen Alipio (@its_mommy_jen) on Jul 10, 2017 at 12:53am PDT

Our tuition fee is quite reasonable and they have a very affordable installment plan. They charge for books separately along with school uniforms. We bought our own notebooks and the rest of Jami's school things from Robinson's and National bookstore.

I am looking forward to have a positive experience here in this school! =)

What about you Mommas? How did you choose your kids' school?

Jami and the Tantrums

Couple of weekends ago, Jami and I fought.

I was really guilty about our encounter that I was thinking about it the next day and the day after. I even get teary eyed kapag naalala ko. I purposefully blogging about it just now so the emotions died down.

Why is it so hard to become a parent? I came to a point where I am so confused if what I am doing is still right.

Ganto kasi yan..

I was preparing our dinner while Jami was playing games on my phone. I asked him to stop playing because the battery's about to die and we're going to eat supper in minutes time. Ang siste, he got pissed because I asked him to stop playing.He got grumpy after tapos pa iyak-iyak and he got really demanding. Ang gusto nya dapat binibigay na agad, yung mga ganyan.

So eto na, Daryl and I were preparing for our dinner when he asked for dede. I said no immediately kasi kakain na nga. I want him to eat dinner first then he can have dede. After that, he got really cranky and crying. I got mad because I am at work the whole day and that I want things to become pretty easy for us both but he's not giving it. Sinubuan ko sya ng food while he was still crying.

Me: Anong nakakaiyak, Jami?! 

The sound of me was really pissed pero I managed not to shout.

Jami cried so loud, spit the food on his mouth. I got more annoyed tinapik ko yung mouth nya. He began to cry louder and went to his Daddy.

Nagpapa awa!

The tendecy is, the TV is on so when his attention get caught, mawawala na ang momentum and I felt makakalusot sya sa mga kalokohan nya so I turned the TV off. First thing first, I want to address his attitude.

That made everything worst. Jami was so angry, he screeched. 

I lost my temper. Ayaw ko pa naman ng sinisigawan ako. I carried him to our room so he can't see Daryl then asked him to face the wall.

Naglulupasay.

I carried him para makatayo sya on his own tapos pinaharap ko lang sa wall. He was still crying, shouting, wailing, I can see he's really mad. He was jumping up and down because of his anger as he looses his self control too. Na feel ko na parang sumosobra na sya so when I saw a thin long wood somewhere in our room, pinalo ko sya.. twice.. on his right leg. I guess it hurt because nag red ng slight yung part na tinamaan sya.

He was crying endlessly and still jumping up and down. I know galit na galit na din talaga sya. I started to think if what I am doing is right. I watched him and that made me really sad, guilty, worse and all the negative feeling in the world. He was sweating kasi nakapatay yung electric fan when we went inside so I asked him to sit down sa bed and turned on the fan in front of him.

I sat beside the fan and observed him. He was still crying pero nag minimize na. Pahikbi - hikbi na lang. Lumalakas ang iyak kapag naaalala nya siguro yung encounter. I let him continue his crying until mejo nagla lie low na sya.

I talked to him in a calm voice but I didn't loose the authority in it.

Me: "Bakit nagalit si Mommy?"

Jami: (sobbing) "Kase.. Kase.. Hmmm.. Kasi..Nag iyak ako eh."

Para akong kinurot sa puso. I don't want him to think na nagagalit ako when he cries. He felt that crying is bad. It was the other way around. I want him to feel that he could cry when he's sad, mad, etc. Lalaki sya and that I want him to grow up na hindi takot ilabas ang nararamdaman nya. Men have tendency to hide their feelings and that is something I want to avoid. I want him to be open with me and his Daddy.

I know at his age, he doesn't know how to handle his emotions and that leads to tantrums.

Me: "Hindi ako nagalit kasi nag iyak ka. Nagalit ako kasi sumisigaw ka. Hindi ka pwedeng sumigaw sa mas matanda sayo. Kahit kay Daddy or kay Nanay o kahit kanino hindi ka pwedeng sumigaw."

Jami: (nodding) "Opo.. opo.. opo.."

That's what he do kapag pinagsasabihan ko sya, opo lang ng opo. I don't even know kung naiintindihan ba nya or nage gets nya ang point pero opo lang yan ng opo. Minsan, nakakaloko kasi baka nag aagree lang para matapos na ang drama. Lol.

Me: "Bakit ako nagalit?"

I tried to repeat the question para malaman ko kung nakinig ba sya or he understands the message. He's still sobbing and I felt pity towards him. I don't know kung tama ba ang mga pinag gagawa ko, sa totoo lang.

I did my best to explain bakit ako nagalit. I want to make sure that he remembered everything and that he knows the moral lesson. Pinaulit - ulit ko ang tanong until he answered correctly na kaya ako nagalit because he was shouting at me.

Me: "Galit ka ba kay Mommy?"

Jami: (Umiiling)

Me: "Hindi ka galit kay Mommy? Ano lang?"

Jami: "Sad ako.. Hindi na ako Happy."

Hindi ko na kinaya, Bes. Maiyak-iyak ako. Of course the last thing us parents want to hear is that our kids being unhappy. What more if it's you who made them sad after all.

Naiiyak tuloy ako habang tinataype ko to. =(

Me: "Sad ka? Pero hindi ka galit kay Mommy?"

Jami: (umiiling)

Me: "Sure ka?"

Jami: "opo."

I guess being sad rather than angry at you is better.

We hugged after. He hugged me for a very long time. Yung hindi lang basta hug na wala lang, masabi lang na nag hug. He hugged me for a good 3-5 minutes. I let him hug me as long as he want. Parang ayaw na nga bumitaw. I can't recall if I said sorry to him but I make sure that he feels good after our little talk. If Daryl wasn't calling us (dahil kumakain kami when the drama started), baka hindi pa kami nag bitaw sa pag hug sa isa't -isa.

We went out of the room and continue our dinner when Nanay came in and took something from our house.

Nanay: "O anong nangyari jan, bakit umiyak yan?"

Me: "Eh di ginulpi ko." (Note: exaggeration)

Nanay: "Ayan ang martilyo o, pukpukin mo. Ano bang laban nyan sayo."

Wow. I definitely need that encouragement. I feel bad na nga, ganun pa ang sinabi sakin. That's when I felt worse, I can't stop thinking about it for a good 2 days. Thinking about it now, parang ganun din naman si Mama sa akin before less the talk after the drama. Did she feel the same way before to say that to me? Probably, Yes. Or maybe she's hurt too kasi apo nga naman nya yun.

As much as possible, I don't want to use corporal punishment. As long as I can make him follow me with just telling him what to do, ginagawa ko. But I guess, there are those days when you are so tired and you feel na sumusobra na din ang attitude nila so you have to use authority. For the last 3 and a half years of me being a Mommy to Jami, this is the third time na napalo ko sya. I am reserving this kind of discipline kapag alam kong sobra na. On many small things that go wrong, pinagsasabihan ko lang by telling him na bad yun, or don't do that kasi hindi maganda yun. The last thing I want is for him to grow up na walang respect sa mas matanda sa kanya specially sa amin ng Daddy nya. I am praying na tama ang ginagawa ko for him to grow up na mabuting tao.

Completely Potty Trained

As far as I know, I blogged about Jami being semi-potty trained last year. He's able to pee during the day and some nights where we don't use diaper at all. However, he still uses one whenever he poops and I had quite a hard time making him use the toilet back then. I accepted the fact that he might not be ready yet so I have to wait for the perfect timing.

Wait no more! I am glad to write about his new milestone!

He now knows how to use the comfort room. He can sleep at night without wearing one and won't pee on our bed. Just to make sure, I always ask him to clean himself up (brush his teeth, change his clothes, and pee) and remind him not to pee while sleeping. Although there were days that I would still make him wear a diaper especially if he feels tired with a whole day activity, or if he fell asleep without having to pee first. On some days, meron din syang presence of mind when he feels that he's peeing on his shorts, he will wake up and would ask me to accompany him sa restroom. During our most recent trip in Calaguas Island, I made him wear diapers while we're in the bus as it's a very long ride.

I am so impressed that he started using the comfort room for when he feels the need to poop. It started when he's having a tummy ache couple of weeks ago. Instead of making him wear a diaper, which if I may add, quite expensive tapos konti lang naman ang i-poop nya, I asked her to go to the bathroom and use the toilet bowl. He was resisting at first but since he really needs to get the poop out, he didn't get a choice. That's when he realized the use of the toilet bowl and how convenient it will be for him. You see, when he does number 2, he would hide himself in our bedroom or anywhere na walang tao. I am glad he found the comfort room the perfect place to use for his number 2 activities. Lol! =D

It was really timely since I am planning to make him start a summer school this month. I know it will be easier and economical for his teacher to help him use their toilet than make him wear diapers. Haha! =) There was a time when I came home and he told that he used the comfort room to poop. I talked to him about Mommy being happy with what he did. I was surprised to see him delighted knowing that his done a good job!

I can't wait to witness more milestones specially this coming months when he start going to school. I made an inquiry in a small school near our house for a start and I can't wait to tell you that new challenge too. =)

My selfie/video buddy. :D

A weekend at Austin Land, SM Southmall

Two weekends ago, I brought Jami to Austin Land again. After my last post here, we never had the chance to go back. Most of the time kasi, we just play inside Timezone with Daddy. Ayaw kasi nya to accompany Jami inside the play area, gusto nya ako, eh there were times that I am wearing a skirt so hindi pwede. The perfect timing came (just Jami and I) so I let Jami play inside.

He probably forgot the first time he was there kasi he didn't mention any of it during our stay.

We paid Php150 for one hour of play. We brought along our socks to save 100 bucks. Adult companion is free by the way unlike any other play grounds.

I know I had my review of the place last time so I won't elaborate on our experience anymore. The place didn't matter to me that much since it was the experience that we value the most.

I was surprised that Jami was so scared to go inside the tunnel. I don't know why but he insisted not to. He was scared so we skipped that. He played with the ball pit, the big blocks and  slides for small kids (scared of the big slides).

so proud of his blocks

I am just a little worried because there were kids talaga that has a not so amazing attitude. There was this one who doesn't want to share toys, she said "That's mine!". Napatulan ko tuloy ng slight, sabi ko, "It wasn't even yours!". Hahahah! There were times talaga na hindi mo mapigilan pumatol sa kids na mejo maldita eh diba? Sorry if it's a little offending with other Mommies pero kasi diba, you have to tell your kids to share specially hindi naman sa kanila yung toys or even the place. Heck! I paid the same amount. But anyway, I am so proud of Jami because when you say he can't have it, nakikinig naman. I always give him something to play with and make him stay away from those kids na may attitude.

Aside from that, we sure had fun and I am hoping to have more Mommy and Jami bonding like this.

Will I recommend the place? Yes. It was really small so you won't be tired trying to catch your kids compared to those big play areas that we've been to. It's perfect for a quick side trip when you go to malls and ran out of things to do or just want to rest while the kids run around safely. =)


Austin Land inside Timezone
SM Southmall, Las Pinas