I’ve been meaning to write about our recent travel to Bangkok but I’ve been busy with so many things. I don’t think I’ll slow down anytime soon because Christmas is just around the corner. Anyway, before we left I posted a photo of our stuff I was packing before our trip:
Some of my friends asked me about these bags. It’s a travel/baby/diaper bag by Kushies. I bought this set more than two years ago from Shop Familia. What you see above are the different small bags that can be found inside the Kushies bag. Continue reading Kushies Travel Bag→
I was never really a fan of Halloween and Trick or Treating because I think there is no reason to celebrate the holiday. I’ve long forgotten our traditions of going to the cemetery since we stopped going to the province during Novembers. In the Philippines, November is the time to celebrate All Saints Day and All Soul Day. Halloween is too foreign and Trick or Treating for kids is not as popular. The latter is a practice that’s beginning to become more popular each year.
As a Christian, I don’t like the idea of everything spooky, ghosts, skeleton, etc. I decided long before my son was born that we wouldn’t let him join such activities until this year. Honestly, I had second thoughts whether to join the “Trick or Treat” at my son’s playschool. But then I thought it’s only for fun. His teacher said it will be a fun affair, no spooky stuff, and scaring the children. The students won’t be going around the building, instead, booths will be setup at a function room.
What made me more excited about the event was the fact that the Toddlers Class where Noah belongs was doing a Beauty Salon booth. It was suggested by David’s Salon’s very own top stylist Laura Charlton (David’s daughter). I got too excited so I suggested a French-Parisian Chic theme with pink and black as the main colors. During my first unofficial Parent-Teachers Conference, the toddlers’ parents decided what things we’d bring. Since we were all busy with work and home, we had to communicate through SMS. There were only four of us communicating so it was easy.
The excited mommy in me volunteered to bring my nail polish collection, bring hair accessories for the little girls, treats, and do the decor. Each one of us would bring treats and whatever stuff we could donate to the class. Needless to say, the busy moms had to do with whatever resources and little time we had.
I was excited! The Parisian Chic Theme was my chance to unleash my kikay decorating powers. I have a son so decorating and doing girly stuff with kids involved is very much limited. This was my chance I thought. The other mothers thought so too because they also had little boys. Hihi.
I started researching on the Internet as soon as I got home but only got to do the shopping and the decors the night before. I enjoyed every second of it even if I had little sleep. I bought black and pink paper from the bookstore, hair accessories, small cheap gifts for the kids, and other pink and girly stuff for decor. I was on a budget so I went to a Divisoria-like mall in our area. I scored small gifts (mirrors, pens, notebooks, toys, etc.) for P10 each. I bought a lot but I thought the extra items could be used for Noah’s upcoming birthday party. I wasn’t able to buy candies as treats because I was in a hurry, had no time to pass by the grocery.
Pinterest helped me a lot. It’s such a godsend I tell you. Sure, there’s Google Image Search but searching for stuff in Pinterest yields more relevant results and images.
I made this pink and black Happy Halloween bunting. I saw a pack of black cut-out letters, cut the triangle buntings, and attached them to a used kraft paper thread:
Happy Halloween Bunting | I find this ironic? How can Halloween be happy? 😀Bon Appetit!Eiffel Tower Silhoutte Art Print
Our HP Printer was running out of black ink but good thing I was able to print all these. I used white, black, and pink paper:
French Chic Party Decor
Since we had the stylists of David Salon coming over, I thought of copying David’s Salon logo. I knew Laura wouldn’t mind since it was for our kids’ class:
The party favors, I wrapped each pne and printed cute party favor tags:
Parisian Chic Party Favor Packaging
I even bought a few bottles of nail polish for the nannies and the moms:
Nail Polish Party Favor for Girls
I brought these stuff to Noah’s school during lunch time because I knew I would be late later. When I arrived at the party venue, the Toddlers Class booth was all spruced up! I loved it! Kudos to the other moms and lolas too.
I bought my French vintage luggages, small Ikea lamp, and a few other framed art prints. I borrowed an Eiffel Tower display from a friend. It’s more special because it was fresh from Europe! I also downloaded French-related music to play at the booth: Amelie Soundtrack, Club Soda Vol. 4, Qui de noud Deux, Ratatouille Soundtrack, and So Young But So Cold Underground French Music.
Obviously, I went overboard again! What’s funny was that Noah wasn’t officially enrolled at the school but his mommy supported the event. I got too excited that I slept only an hour. I relied on the power of coffee the day after. My husband didn’t say anything because he already knows me when it comes to parties, decors, and stuff.
What’s ironic, I forgot all about Noah’s costume! Haha! I planned on making him a LEGO Minifig Costume because he is in a Lego phase but mommy was too busy with the girly stuff. I just had him don his Batman costume.
Batman Halloween Costume for Kids
My son loved his Batman costume until he saw the other kids wearing Iron Man, Captain America, and Call of Duty. He still had no concept of trick or treating or the candy collecting part. He was running around the whole night–like a tornado. I think between the two of us, I had more fun. I enjoyed the preparation and I gained new friends too. This Trick or Treat was our very first.
What I loved most about that night was I remembered how my parents –my mom and dad– supported me all throughout school. I remembered my childhood that night. I thought about how my daddy would help me with my projects especially those with drawing and art required. He would drive me to school every single day too. I remembered how my mom would support our school activities, cooking for me and my friends (sometimes the whole class), and going up the stage with me to receive my medals at the end of the school year. The two of them were always present.
I think my excitement in volunteering for this school activity stemmed from the fact that my parents were there for me…for me and my siblings. My classmates and teachers knew my parents so well because they were visible. That night, I was thankful to God because I grew up having very supportive parents–the two of them. I hope and pray that Joshua and I would that supportive to Noah. We want to be involved in his school activities someday.
The night wasn’t just about Halloween anymore, it was me remembering my childhood and my parents. Maybe next year, Noah would be able to understand the concept and enjoy his time more. Never mind the ghosts, monsters, and all the gore. 🙂
“Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the Lord your God is giving you.” Exodus 20:12
My son turns 3 today. I wish to share a lot of new things today about my son but one day won’t be enough. I have a number of posts on draft already but I have no idea when I’ll be able to finish them.
I just want to enjoy this day with my son and husband. No big party this year…just a small one at Jollibee with family next week.
Planning a “small party” is more challenging than planning a big one. I could still remember Noah’s 1st Birthday party when I went all out. I promise to feature his Rockstar Themed Party preparations but I can’t find the time yet. But here’s a video to give you an idea:
Music was by 13Needles–my husband’s old emo-rock band- where he was the bassist. Video by my friend Richard Samellano.
That’s only the video invitation. Hee. 😀
And here is 13 Needle’s Cab One video:
Spot my husband. 😀
Oh come, let us sing to the Lord, let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation! Psalm 95:1
Mommy Mundo Bazaar 2012: The Christmas Bazaar for Chic Shopping Mamas!
You can never strip mamas off their shopping duties. More often than not, shopaholic single women graduate to become shopaholic mamas. One perfect example is me! (Don’t ask how.) I haven’t done my Christmas shopping yet but I know I have to be more practical this year. Unlike many of the couples I know, my husband and I do not have 13th month pay and Christmas bonuses. I used to look forward to December because of such. My husband before even had up to 14th month pay. Oh how I’d love to receive an extra month pay! The only way we could receive such bonus is through some sort of miracle.
I need to be smart and practical because times are changing. Can one still be a shopaholic and save money? Yes, if you will choose what to buy and learn to be wise. You don’t need to splurge on Christmas gifts this year, you just have to be wise.
And so I suggest you go to bazaars such as the Mommy Mundo Christmas Bazaar because you will find great deals. I am a supporter of local products, especially by the mompreneurs (mom entrepreneurs), so I highly recommend this one.
I cringe on going to crowded malls during Christmas seasons but the Mommy Mundo Christmas Bazaar 2012 will be held at the Rockwell Tent so you know shopping will be more efficient and more comfy. (The AC inside the tent really works!)
I’m a regular goer of bazaars held at the Rockwell Tent because it’s near our place. I remember going to one Christmas bazaar there a few weeks after I gave birth. Obviously, I scored really great deals.
So who wants to go shopping with me, mommas?
“In all your ways acknowledge Him,
and He will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:6
Christmas Traditions Christmas Crafts Workshop by Queti Azurin
Fancy Momma and Fully Booked present “Christmas Traditions, Christmas Crafts for Parents and Children”
Learn how to build memorable Christmas traditions that you can pass on to generations in your family and learn to create Christmas crafts you can do as a family.
November 17, 2012 from 1:30-5:30pm in Fully Booked Forum Bonifacio High Street
Workshop fee: P1,300 (includes craft materials, module, certificate and snacks). Early bird discount of 10% if payment is settled on or before November 6.
Limited Slots!
Contact Queti Azurin at 3327102 or 09173551895 or email info@quetiazurin.com for details.
Suddenly, I’m interested in making crafts. I’m all for making new family traditions and that includes making crafts with Noah. Actually, I’m excited to decorate our very first Christmas tree. We’ve had trees the past years but this year, we decided to buy a bigger one. I’m still searching for an affordable but good quality Christmas tree. I already have a theme in mind but I don’t know how and when to start. Hopefully on the 3rd week of November, Noah’s new Kwisas Tri will be up.
I have this habit of buying notebooks but I always end up not using them. I have this one corner in my tiny bedside bookshelf where empty and unfilled notebooks are all lined up. I like pretty ones, leather-bound, or anything with unique design.
One night, I decided to open a purple journal which I know once belonged to my sister. I meant to use it as a “baby notebook” where I would write down my pregnancy tales and experiences as a new mommy. But guess what, I never got to write down anything after all these years. I only wrote on two pages and pasted some magazine clippings for me to read on about five pages. That was almost three years ago.
It was in July when I started writing again on this notebook. This time, I decided to use it a “Mommy Tips” notebook. I plan to share this with Noah to prepare him and his wife for parenthood in the future, and God willing, to my daughter someday.
It is my prayer that I become the mother God wants me to me. I decided to share what I’ve written in my notebook here in my blog. I hope mothers (and dads too!) may find these words helpful.
I have more than a hundred in my journal already but I will share a few from time to time. The tips and reminders here are from various books I’ve read, advice from other parents, or things I read online. For now, here are my first 10 Mommy Tips:
Pray with your children and remind them that when they pray according to God’s promises, He always answers.
Parents, know the Lord yourselves, and saturate your children with the Word of God– the greater heritage they can receive from you.
Prayer is the key to your success as a mother. Pray for and love your kids.
How to ensure protection of your children: (1) plead the blood of Jesus; (2) take advantage of angelic protection; (3) listen to your spirit; and (4) discipline your children.
Step out and do the one thing you really need to do today. Do not wait for tomorrow.
The mother should “warm the nest” by setting up a loving, forgiving, and peaceful atmosphere in the home. You can do this by meditation on His word, praying for His grace, peace, love, and joy to fill your home.
Examine your child’s talents and interests. Encourage them and help develop their skills. CAST THE VISION.
Plant a seed today of the very thing you believe God will provide.
Develop intimacy with your husband. It takes time and effort but always, always worth it.
You can plan and plant the future of your children by way of preventive praying.
(NOTE: I don’t claim ownership of these words. Most of these are direct quotes, others rephrased.)
’til the next set of parenting tips. Ciao!
Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. “Honor your father and mother”—which is the first commandment with a promise — “so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.” Ephesians 6:1-3 (NIV)
She selects wool and flax and works with eager hands. She is like the merchant ships, bringing her food from afar. She gets up while it is still night; she provides food for her family and portions for her female servants. She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.
Proverbs 31:13-16
It’s a WAHMderful Life Seminar | Workshop for Stay at Home Moms and Dads in the Philippines
…or you are probably thinking of becoming one? Then you may want to attend this seminar especially organized for the moms by Dainty Mom and Manila Workshops.
Workshop Rate: P1,300.00 Early Bird Rate on or before Sept. 20: P1,000.00 Group Rate: Groups of 3 is P1,000.00 each
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I’ve been working from home for more than five years now and I can’t honestly say it’s been all bliss. The domesticated life has been more challenging when Noah came but I wouldn’t trade this setup for anything else in the world. I prayed for this and God chose to bless me in this way.
I want to join this seminar but it coincides with another one so I’ll just wait for the next event. I hope to bring my husband Joshua with me to the next seminar because he’s a Work-At-Home-Daddy. Yup, my husband and I both work from home so it means I have more responsibilities at home . I clean, do the laundry, cook, take care of my boys, act as Executive Assistant to my husband– all these and more, while I work. On the side, I accept freelance projects/consulting too.
EXTRA CHALLENGE talaga! But really, I am more than thankful to God for what I have right now. I now in my heart that He is preparing us for something not just better but grander in the future. For now, we live, we love, and we wait. 🙂
Older women likewise are to be reverent in behavior, not slanderers or slaves to much wine*. They are to teach what is good, and so train the young women to love their husbands and children*, to be self-controlled, pure, working at home, kind, and submissive to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be reviled.
Titus 2:3-5 (ESV)
“Fathers, don’t exasperate your children
by coming down hard on them.
Take them by the hand
and lead them in the way of the Master. ” Ephesians 6:4 (The Message )
How does one became a good parent? A husband and wife team like Joshua and I desire to be good parents to Noah. We’re only realizing now that it isn’t a walk in the park. Taking care of a baby is different from raising a child. The first one is physically exhausting but the latter can be emotionally demanding.
To educate ourselves, we bought books to read, bookmarked parenting websites, and subscribed to family-related magazines. We invested on materials we know could help us and give us ideas on how to raise a child. But these are mere guides. Most of them remain untouched, remain unread.
While we have these resources we know could teach us, we forget that there is One perfect example of what a good parent is–our Heavenly Father.
We have our parents to look up to but they are not perfect. They’ve made mistakes like every one else. We learn from them. But God, in His infinite greatness, “parents” with gentleness, loving kindness, and with the goal of correction.
He disciplines us His children by way of training. God trains us, He doesn’t only teach. He trains us because He wants us to be prepared for life. He teaches us because He loves us and He wants us to be wise and ready for the future.
The Heavenly Father administers disciplines without any delay. He disciplines us His children immediately and works to bring us closer to Him. God still desires a closer relationship with us despite out rebellious ways. (This was perfectly illustrated by the Parable of the Prodigal Son.)
Parenting is more than a privilege. I believe it is a big responsibility. To care for a child is such a tall order. You may think you can leave the disciplining to the grandparents, teachers, books, television, computer, gadgets, or daycare centers, but you can’t. And you shouldn’t.
My husband and I are at a season of discovering what method will work best with Noah. There was a time that I considered him rambunctious that I didn’t want to bring him out the house with me. You just couldn’t ask him to sit still or stop running around. I would get impatient at times, choosing to leave him with his very patient dad at home. I am grateful to God for blessing me with a husband who is very hands on with our son. No wonder Noah prefers to be with him (and because mommy is boring!).
But God reminded me that there is hope and that I can be the kind of mother He wants me to be. I know it isn’t to0 late as Noah is only 2 years old. This is nothing compared to the problems some parents are dealing with right now. Noah is just under 3. It’s not yet the end of the world. There is hope.
Actually, I only needed to be reminded of my role as a mother.
I learned once again that…
I am a mother by blessing.
I am responsible to provide a spiritual heritage for my child.
I am called to show Noah that God is real by planting the Scriptures in his heart.
The kind of discipline God administers to us helps us to take responsibility for our actions and teach us what we need to know in the future.
God promptly disciplines and quickly restores fellowship with us. There are parents who choose to avoid conflict and ignore their children when problems arise. They do not talk and discipline their kids when they go astray especially when they are already adults. That is not the kind of parent I want to be.
I don’t want to hurt my child emotionally because it might scar him for life. I hope to discipline him with love. I desire to learn loving discipline…the kind that lasts..the kind that will make my child respect and honor me and my husband.
One practical tip which I recently leaned and I can share to the parents — have a time out. But don’t take too long. When the toddler is misbehaving, send him to a corner or pull him away from the crowd. Count 1 to 10, 1 to 20, or up to 100 if you are the impatient kind, do this before you talk to him and tell him what he has done and what shouldn’t be done in the future.
I realized that it is important to give time to release my anger or frustration so I wouldn’t physically hurt my child and say things I would later regret. I know from painful experience that words aren’t easily taken back.
God as our Father should be our role model for parenting. And how can we discover more of how our Heavenly Father leads us? Spend time in prayer and read The Word. It’s how we learn how our Father parents us, so we can also raise our children to be responsible, loving, obedient…the kind that bring honor and glory to God.
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Dear Lord,
Thank you for the privilege of being a parent and a wife. Thank you for my husband who is very supportive and my son who brings so much joy in our lives. I pray that I become the mother you want me to be–one that is devoted to You, my child’s father, and to training the little one. Teach me to become more patient when it comes to disciplining him. Train us…lead me and my husband to the path of godly parenting.
Amen
PS: I do not claim to be an expert. The three years I’ve been a parent is not enough. The things I’m sharing here are the ones I’ve learned about parenting so far. I’m still new in this wonderful journey called motherhood. I pray parents, especially my momma friends, learn from my realizations and experiences too. 🙂
PPS: I wrote this on my journal within five minutes last Saturday, October 13. It was one of those times that I felt compelled to grab the pen and just write. Looking forward to more of this writing and sharing what I learn.
This one is happening now. I wish I could go but I have another event.
If you’re a mommy and you’re free today, go to The Loft at Rockwell to meet other moms,
kids, and daddies too! (Umm, that didn’t sound right. Hehe.)
I won’t see you there but I hope you go. Enjoy!
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She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks. Proverbs 31:17
