Day 106: Entrance Exam

I'm so sure hubby and I were the more anxious ones today during our children's entrance exam at BCS.  We might as well be the ones taking the exam as evidenced by clammy hands and sweaty foreheads. Our daughter, Caitlin breezed through her preschool test by confidently following the teacher's instructions and answering the paper test in front of her. 

This was so unlike my very own experience 33 years ago when my parents took me to Maryknoll CSC for the entrance test. They brought me to the school a total of three times - the first two were unsuccessful attempts to let me take the exam as I would be kicking and screaming upon being ushered into the room. During the third and final attempt (which turned out to be the last chance to take the test), my Mom gave the ultimatum - if I didn't willingly go with the teacher to take the exam, I won't be able to go to school. Well, I went in, took the test and came out grinning from ear-to-ear half an hour later. I remember my parents telling the story of what I said upon emerging from the examination room, "Hay, ganun lang pala yun exam, may mga tanong lang...akala ko naman parang injection sa doktor yun..." - classic epic fail of my preschool life.

As incoming Grade Two, I'm sure nothing prepared our son, Jarred, for the two-hour, more than 10-page test he encountered this morning.  If he was nervous or afraid, you wouldn't see it...he faced the challenge head on and didn't give up until he finished all pages (despite feeling some pangs of hunger midway through the exam).

My hats off to the resilience and tenacity of children today...they're growing up more confident and ready for the world compared to how we were when we were their age.

The exam results won't be in until after Holy Week...until then, we will just keep praying that God's will be done. Everything is in God's hands now...

Day 246: Pride and Joy

One of the gazillion things I love about being a mom is watching my children absorb the things they encounter everyday like sponges. Their learning potential is truly at its peak right now that they're in preschool and primary ages. 

Ever since starting formal school almost 3 years ago, Jarred Andrei, my firstborn, has developed in leaps and bounds from the very first time he held a pencil in his hand and attempted to write. Sure, he was an excellent verbal communicator but he was weak in reading and writing then. 

My little man has grown a lot since then and has achieved far greater than I have ever imagined he would. It was a mother's pride that nearly made me shed tears when I got up on stage to pin his ribbons during the 1st Quarter Recognition Day today. He was 2nd Honors in both the Chinese and English Departments. I was overwhelmed with joy as I saw that sparkle in his eye. It certainly made me think that all those hours labored over exam reviewers were well worth it.

Day 239: Celebrating BFCS' 22 years

By the end of a very long and tiring week, everyone was ready to take things slower. Today marked the awarding ceremonies of the SportsFest and Literary-Musical events held earlier in the week. By noon, parents and teachers also had an opportunity to bond over the Luncheon Fellowship. In the end, all kids went home winners, their hearts full of pride and joy.

Day 236: Grand Parade

Students, Teachers, Admin and Parents unite to start the celebration with a big bang!

Princes and Princesses with their court

After nearly a month of preparations, the long-awaited school foundation week celebration has finally come. This year, BFCS certainly pulled all the stops - from the very successful fund raising activity (plastic recycling) to the announcement of this year's young Prince and Princesses. 

For me personally, this event has given me the opportunity to help out and support the children and faculty in the different contests. It was also a wonderful venue to meet up and get to know the other parents in the community.

Take a peek at the grand opening salvo...

The fierce warriors - DACTYL Team

The bright and cheery SUN Team

The ever-sparkling  STAR Team

The young scene-stealers - TITANS Team

Day 232: We Are Family

It wasn't too long ago when it was just hubby and I starting out our life together...that was in early 2001. A year and a half later, we were blessed with our firstborn, JARRED ANDREI. And for quite a number of years, it was the three of us, living a simple life in down south Philippines. In late 2006, we welcomed a new addition to our family...our princess, CAITLIN ALYSSA. Five months after she was born, our family packed our bags and moved to Northern Mindanao, in the city of Butuan, which we now call home. Our family received a surprise blessing in early 2009 with the birth of the "bunso" of the family, CATHLEEN JANELLE. 

Life at home is rarely quiet and serene, most of the time it's filled with shrieks and laughter. The zen design hubby and I have always aspired to have in our home has taken a temporary backseat to the pieces of toys, books and thingamajigs that the kids manage to strew all over the place. There's wailing, crying and quarreling but there's also a whole lot of loving, caring, understanding and praying. 

Whenever I look at my family of five, I never cease to wonder how everything turned out to be this way...it seemed only yesterday when it was just hubby and myself. My life now revolves around what I call a HAPPY CHAOS...filled with laughter and tears, ups and downs, fighting and making up, misunderstanding and understanding, trials and blessings.

I thank God for placing me amidst this wonderful and crazy bunch I call family...it's His most wonderful gift to me. 

Day 230: Princess DIVAS

Two months ago, I posted an entry about my concert diva daughter, Cailie. Apparently, the youngest in the family, CeeJae, has also been bitten by the concert bug and now joins her Ate in a "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star" concert.

Watch and listen to their beautiful voices as they lovingly dedicate to you their masterpiece...

Day 218: First PTA 2010

With the school's foundation anniversary fast approaching, Butuan Faith Christian School (BFCS) held its first PTA meeting for SY 2010-2011. Instead of the usual general PTA assembly, we were broken into groups. This year's grouping theme is about celestial bodies. My son Jarred is part of the Sun Group. The other two groups in the Elementary level are Dactyl and Star while the Preschool level is called the Titans Team.

Topics discussed were the different contests our children were going to be involved in like Speech Choir, Reader's Theater, Song Interpretation and Field Demonstration. It was such a blessing to have parents who are so open and willing to support their children in this endeavor. At the end of the meeting, we all agreed to come in full force during the foundation week and even participate during the SportsFest.


Go go go SUN team!!!

Day 209: Gettin' Ready for Foundation Week

For the past two years, my son Jarred took part in his school's foundation celebration as a member of the preschool group. Well, since he's in primary level now, this is will be the first time that he will be grouped with other elementary graders. 

He is a member of the SUN Group composed of 18 young boys and girls from grades 1 to 6. In preparation for the week-long celebration, they are knee-deep in preparations for the numerous group contests: Field Demonstration, Song Interpretation, Speech Choir and Readers' Theater. As shown in the photos, I caught them practicing for the Speech Choir competition.

Day 186: City Life

It will be more than eight years now that I'd been living the promdi (provincial) life. Being born and raised in Manila/Quezon City for most of my life, it is still a puzzle to me (and to most people who know me) how I was able to appreciate and love the simple life. Knowing and seeing it is one thing but living it is entirely a different matter altogether. 

I was known as "lakwatsa" and "porma" girl in my younger days. The Greenhills Shopping Center was my hangout place and I remember needing to be updated with the latest fashion trend. That was one effect of growing up in a private all-girls school. I had this lopsided view about life and belongingness. I grew up believing I had to be "in" to feel that I fit in. I guess that was the reason why I never felt real happy during elementary and high school days. I was always measuring myself against my richer and well-placed classmates that I forgot that the most important thing was developing my own being and individuality. 

I was fortunate to learn this once I entered the country's state university where my classmates came from all walks of life and from all over the country. It was where kikay met jologs and sossy hobnobbed with geeky and it was sooooo okay. For the first time in my life, I felt that I belonged in this crazy world. 

I guess it was this awesome, mind-blowing and culture-shaking experience that made me  go for the unusual things in life - choosing to start a career right smack in Manila's pier area, deciding to move to Cebu for independence and finally settling for a laid back life in Northern Mindanao.

Shunning away from the busy city life has probably added several years to my life expectancy because of less stress, no pollution and a no-excess lifestyle. The lure of the bright lights only come once in a blue moon and is easily fixed through a brief vacation in the city. Looking at how well my children are - carefree, simple and happy, I know that hubby and I must be doing something right and have made the best decision we could ever make for the family - the rustic provincial living. 

Day 180: Parent-Teacher Partnership

Start of the school year means another Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) year. Every year since my Jarred started attending school, I make sure that I take an active role as the school's partner in his education and development. After all, it is every parent's desire that their child receive the best Christian education and formation that will enable them to secure a bright future. Parents need to proactively support the school through its teachers by closely monitoring both academic and non-academic activities. We have a responsibility to make sure that our children are receiving the right and timely information. The school needs our feedback and assistance when it comes to our children's performance and vice-versa. It is a two-way street and the PTA becomes the vehicle to have a smooth-sailing school year.

Day 171: Father's Day 2010

The Almighty Father has been so gracious in gifting me with wonderful stewards of His fatherly love on this earth. Today, I pay tribute to the three men who give real meaning to the word "FATHER". 

To my loving Daddy...

You were my strength and inspiration growing up since you played the role of mother most of my young life as you and Mom had a reversal of roles in our family. I grew up seeing you manage the little details of home life - attending to our school needs, nutrition and learning. During most days, you went out of your way to deliver freshly-cooked meals to school so that I'd have a wonderful lunch experience. You painstakingly taught me the rudiments of Math whenever I'm ready to give up (it was never my favorite subject but with under your tutelage, I survived it). Yours was the loudest applause whenever I had to be on stage for school performances and quarterly academic awards. It was your shoulder I cried on when I had my first heartbreak. You raised my bar of expectation for possible suitors and eventually for my choice of life partner. He had to at least match you in every possible way or else he's out of the running. Even when I became independent and started a family of my own, you never ceased to love and support me. As a grandfather, you dote on my children and love each one equally. I may never get to see you as often as I want to but keep in your heart the knowledge that you are never far from my heart nor my mind.

To my dear Papa...

The greatest gift you have ever given me is the gift of your son. Through you, God granted me a most wonderful man to love and care for. Your ways may have been totally different from my Dad's but it was your own personal touch. Life's lessons were learned through and because of you. During times of need, you always had an open heart and lent your time and effort. I remember your invaluable presence when we first moved to Butuan and didn't have extra help. You stayed with me and the children while hubby was on regular out-of-town trips in his job. There were times you dozed off while patiently waiting for me to finish my online lessons. Your grandchildren find security and peace in your loving embrace and they are always excited to see you during brief visits. I thank God everyday for doubling my source of fatherly love by bringing you into my life.

To my Ga, my darling Jerome...

If there was an award for the Best Father in the World, you'd most likely bag it for your ways are so unconventional and yet they are always right and logical in raising children to be the best all-around Christians. By going against time-tested practices and making your own parenting rules, you manage to combine lessons learned from old ways and the new way of thinking to meet current global needs. Unorthodox as they may be, I know that our children will be better equipped to face the challenges of the future. I am proud to say that whatever I know about parenthood today I learned from you and I've become a better mother to our children because of you. Your parenting style is one of tough love - a way I know that will make our children strong, independent, confident and decisive. Sure, it's hard to see them go through life's hardships but it's going to be much more difficult if we gave them the easier way of life. That ain't love, it's spoiling. As a loving and caring Dad, you make sure our children are provided with their needs, even just the simple ones that bring smiles to their faces. After all, in life, it's you who they need and not whatever material stuff they just see or want. As they grow, I can see that what they appreciate is our presence in their lives, they're content and truly happy with what they have. In many ways, you've also weaved your parenting magic on me and made me a much better person in so many ways. I can never thank you enough for being an awesome Dada to our three kids. They are truly blessed to have you as their father. 

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!!!

Day 129: Mommy and Mama

On this special day, I pay tribute to two mothers who are my inspiration and source of strength in my own journey in motherhood.

To MOMMY: 

Thank you for all the sacrifices you've done to give us a good life and a bright future. It is only now that I understand how difficult it must have been for you to balance your duties as a dedicated pediatrician and your obligations as a wife and mother. 

Please forgive me for failing to acknowledge your efforts by focusing on what I couldn't see. I learned to appreciate your brand of motherhood only when I became one myself. It was a trying experience for me. 

I will never forget how you rushed to my side when I gave birth to Jarred and Cailie. We were spared so much hardship with you at the helm during my two deliveries. You taught us well, Mom. So well, in fact, Jerome and I made it on our own when our bunso, CeeJae was born. You'd be proud of us...

As a doting Mommy Lola, you never cease to think about your grandchildren and provide for their needs. The kids always remember you whenever they get hold of the precious toys or wear the attractive clothing you so lovingly gave them.

Thank you will never be enough Mom. Please remember that we love you very much!

To MAMA:

How can I possibly put into words the gratitude and love I have for you in raising a wonderful son like Jerome? You've had your share of hardship and trials in raising 5 boys, almost all on your own. It must have been chaotic and scary but you've managed and all of them grew up to be exceptional young men.

Thank you for accepting me into your family and treating me like your own. I value the assistance and support you give us whenever we need a hand with the kids or we're strapped for cash.

When Mommy wasn't able to come home when I gave birth to CeeJae, you were the one who assisted us in taking care of her. You made sure I was well enough to care for the new baby myself before you returned home.

Your apos look forward to their Cebu visits because they can spend time with you. I'm touched by your generosity and kind heart. 

**************************************************************************************

On this day, I wish my two mothers a very HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!!! Both of you have taught me to cherish motherhood and enjoy its ups and downs. I love you both! 

Day 121: Firstborn

After finishing the collage of my bunso, CeeJae, when she turned 1 almost a week ago, I got inspired to do the same for my two older kids. It was fun rummaging through over a thousand photos and choosing only one for every year of my dear firstborn son, JARRED ANDREI. It was a nostalgic trip down memory lane, remembering every occasion and situation depicted in each photo. 

I can't believe that 7 years has passed since I held a handsomely-dark little baby boy in my arms. It was a challenge as a first-time Mom and we've had hits and misses, my son and I, but I'm proud to say that he brought out the best in me as a mother. Despite the difficulties I encountered both as a wife and Mom during Jarred's early years, he turned out to be such a smart, confident and caring young boy. I can rely on him to take care of his two younger siblings when I'm busy with house chores or teaching tasks. He plays substitute teacher to them at times so it's not a surprise that the girls are starting to love school and learning.

To my firstborn, my only son - thank you for showering my life with so much joy and pride. You will always be my baby and even though there are times we don't see eye to eye, always remember that Mommy loves you so much.

Day 110: My Treasures

During times of uncertainty and doubt, I only have to look at three innocent faces to know that I am on the right track and that I've made pretty good choices in my life.  Twenty years ago, I would've scoffed at the idea of being a stay-at-home Mom and wife.  I'd probably say "Why put to waste many years of study just to become a domestic diva?".  Well, that was exactly what I thought of being domesticated then.  I thought I'd be doing a great disservice to my parents who sacrificed a lot to make sure I got topnotch education.

Fast forward to today...I'm a proud domestic goddess and a happy stay-at-home Mom - roles I never thought I'd choose when I was still in the corporate jungle.  When I made the decision in 2001 to focus all of my energy on family and home management, I wasn't sure I was making the right choice.  Now, looking at the lovely photos of my three young children, I know, deep in my heart, I did well.  Not many women are given the opportunity to stay with their children 24/7 like I do as most women now need to balance family life and a career.

I'd have to say that there are times I miss being part of the hustle and bustle of corporate life but not so much that I'd choose to go back to that path.  I love where I am now and what I'm doing.  Taking care of three children under 8 with only the parenting partnership of my hubby is no easy task.  It requires a lot of patience.  Every single day is chaotic...what I'd call joyful chaos.  It's loud, crazy and messy at times but above all, it's fun and fulfilling.  Getting a kiss and a tight hug from my kids at the end of a busy day only strengthens my belief that I did right.  I'm responsible for raising three lives and I'm going to make sure they grow up as good Christians with great dignity and ambition.

Day 80: Baccalaureate Sunday

My son, Jarred Andrei, together with the entire Kindergarten II and Grade VI classes of Butuan Faith Christian School had their Baccalaureate Service at the Butuan Gospel Church.  So dashing and pretty in their maroon (Kinder) and white (Elementary) togas and caps, the soon-to-be graduates marched into the church as they were welcomed by the school heads, faculty, their parents, family members and friends.  

Both graduating classes presented uplifting Chinese songs and inspirational English pieces.  The stage mother's heart in me skipped a bit when it was my son's turn at a solo part in their English song.

The highlight of the afternoon was the inspirational talk by Pastor Joshua Ong on the theme "Leaving a Legacy".  He noted that the best legacy we can leave our children is not the material wealth that we have but rather the legacy of God and how he works in our lives.  He focused on the very important role that parents have in molding children...the home is a child's very first school and his parents are his very first teachers.  He mentioned that we need to be the models for our children in showing and giving of our 100% to God.  It is the giving of love to God with all our heart, mind, soul and might.  Anything short of that is a failure.  This is the legacy we need to leave our children for them to truly succeed in their human life.

At the end of the ceremony, it was evident how inspired everyone was and how excited they all were for their upcoming graduation on the 24th. 

Day 71: Playtime

Having three kids makes our home a full house.  It is chaotic and loud, messy and sticky, crazy and topsy-turvy but I won't have it any other way...these 3 rugrats + an awesome hubby make my life wonderful and exciting to live each day.

Day 63: Milestone

Today is a very special day for my bunso...CeeJae took her first 3 steps unassisted. She'd been standing and cruisin' since two months ago when she turned 8 months old.  We noticed that every time she accomplishes a milestone, she gets even more daring and courageous in her actions.

She carefully stood up from a sitting position and held her balance before attempting to move her foot into a step.  Her Daddy coaxed her to come to him and ever so gracefully, she took that step 1...2...and 3...until finally reaching his outstretched arms.

Soon after this accomplishment, she became unstoppable! It was as if she found so much freedom in her new discovery.  As bedtime approached, she tried going up the stairs by herself while being closely guarded by Daddy. She was clapping her hands in glee upon reaching the very top step.  

Great job, baby girl!!!

Day 51: Tight Embrace

Sibling love at its best...

Two of my hopes as a parent is that all three of my children grow up loving each other and become servants of God and men.

I believe in starting them young...obviously, my bunso already gets the idea.

Day 41: The Spice of Life

I love spicy food!  In fact even my dipping sauce always has chili peppers whenever I'm serving fried fish.  There's something about heat exploding inside the mouth that has got me hooked.

However, this post is not about food but rather about the spice of life - the things in our lives that make living exciting.  These are the stuff that make us look forward to waking up each day.

And since I'm one who enjoys heat in my food, it's no wonder that I have quite a long list of the things that spice up my life.  But for the purpose of brevity, let me focus on the top 5:

1. hubby and I are opposites of each other (which is why sparks fly whenever we argue and the same goes whenever we make up)
2. my son's stubborn streak (which he obviously got from me...it has made me realize what my parents had to go through while raising me)
3. my elder daughter's "allergy" to the word 'NO' (she has her means to get what she wants that gets to be irritating most of the time but it only shows that she has a very strong personality and will not take NO for an answer)
4. my youngest daughter's independent streak (at 9 months old, she already insists on doing things her way...I feel that she's growing up too fast but can't help but rejoice that she's quite advance in her developmental milestones
5. family squabbles (I believe this is normal in most families...it strengthens relationships and enables family members to exert more effort in understanding each other)

Now, it's your turn...what's your spice of life?

Day 39: TRISTAN REI

Today marks the 6th birthday of my one and only nephew, TRISTAN REI.  He's the only son of my younger sister.  My children fondly call him "cousin TREI".  Due to distance, we haven't met him face-to-face since he lives with his family in Canada.  Thank heavens for modern technology, Jarred, Cailie and CeeJae can regularly video chat with him via Skype.  At times, they would spend hours online showing off their toys and actually playing with them onscreen as if they were just in one room.  Isn't that awesome?

Trei is a cool and very smart kid...I love it when he says my name in that so husky voice..."Hello Tita Cathee!...where's Kuya Red?"  He sent tears to my eyes when at one time he said, "Oh wow Tita Cathee, thanks so much for inviting me to your home...I'd love to go there...Mom, Tita Cathee says I can stay in their house in the Philippines!"  He is such a well-mannered little boy.  No wonder he's got his Mom and Dad wrapped around his little finger...not to mention his two Lolas - Lola Linda and Mommy Cecille and his Tita Ninang Kate.  

You've grown up so fast, little man...and you've brightened the lives of people around you...I can just imagine a room lighting up whenever you enter it...you are that kind of child...so full of energy and joy!  Continue to shower your goodness to those you meet and remember that there are people back in the Philippines who are loving you more and more each day.  

Tristan, we haven't met you in person yet...haven't held you in a warm embrace...haven't kissed your head full of hair...but trust that you are loved deeply by all of us here.  We can't wait for that time when we can all finally meet and be together.

Happy Birthday our dearest Trei!!!  We love and miss you very much!!!

*** NOW photo courtesy of Tita Ninang Kate; THEN photo courtesy of Mommy Tintin