Angel from above

Gymnastics Club

2010-02-19T21:24:00.002+08:00

Family Day 2010

2010-02-19T21:19:00.002+08:00

Enchanted Kingdom for BFF

2010-02-19T21:07:00.005+08:00

Christmas Play 2009

2010-02-19T20:48:00.003+08:00

Star City

2010-02-19T20:43:00.001+08:00

Kindergolf

2010-02-19T20:41:00.003+08:00

5th Birthday at Active Fun

2010-02-18T20:08:00.003+08:00

Go in Peace Cory Aquino

2009-08-01T20:39:00.004+08:00

Enjoying Golf with Kinder Golf

2009-07-18T09:33:00.003+08:00

A few months ago, Sam started going on the Outdoor Chip & Putt program of Kinder Golf (which is done in the Golf course) and everytime she has a session, we all get excited! I'm no golf expert but we feel that she has improved a lot, has better concentration, follows directions well and is able to correct herself with instruction. And we see the benefits that golf brings to her not only when she plays golf but even in her other activities like school and playing with friends.

Take a look at some of her pictures during the Outdoor session. Sorry for the far pictures but we're not allowed to go with them on the golf course.

Easter Fun at Dusit

2009-07-18T09:25:00.003+08:00

This year we tried celebrating Easter at Dusit hotel and we all liked it very much! Not too much people, egg hunt was well organized by age and there were a lot of fun games and activities. Plus it was not expensive as compared to the previous hotels we've tried and there is no charge for adults! We might try this venue again next year!

Summer Activity - Ballet Class

2009-07-18T09:18:00.005+08:00

Had fun taking ballet classes in Shangrila this summer. Mamu was the best!

Love and Berry Updates

2009-04-18T21:41:00.003+08:00

For those who have been inquiring, please find below our list of double cards as of April 2009. If you want to trade or purchase the cards from us (15 pesos each), pls contact me at rubai1@yahoo.com or thru 0917-8673221.

Clothes
2 Comfy casual
6 Fitted Tee girl
7 Metallic down
9 Sparkly pearl dress
10 Petite parka knit
17 Sporty Mix jumper
23 Active parka
28 Lacy Frill
34 Baby Black tee
40 Royal Turquoise
41 Sunlight honey
42 Cool mint tea
44 Floral carnation
47 Retro pleats
49 Sunflower dress
50 Go go mini one-piece
51 Sport Casual cargo
52 Lady argyle
54 Feminine b-girl
55 Clear lime girl
56 Flowy mini celeb
57 Shiny carribean
58 Canary one-piece
59 Victorian rosetta
60 Pop N'Sweets
61 Sapphire Bell Bottoms
62 Cutie red
66 Strawberry cheer girl
71 Snow fantasy
72 Orange hip hung
73 Pinky Rock'N Roll
76 Symphony Frill
77 Vanilla Sweater
78 Princess Alabesque
79 Romantic empire dress
80 Sunset beach
84 Happiness Q heart
86 Ribbon compleno
88 Raffine amethyst
90 One-shoulder Gem
94 Seabreeze blue
96 Hip hugger heaven
101 Tailored tomboy
103 Gorgeous garnet
105 Ruffled lace
106 Pepper Hot Pants
107 Ricamo vest
108 Lyrical scarlet
110 Layers of light
114 Blooming breeze
117 Forest fairy
123 Bunny sweater
125 Brisk pedal pushers

Shoes
1 Platform Pink sneakers
3 Pastel blue high cut
4 Lace-up boots
5 Lacy heels
6 Nadeshiko thong sandals
7 Jewelry heels
9 Starry Diva Boots
10 Pom-pom leg warmers
12 Pastel love sneakers
13 Pink ribbon heels
14 Bouncy basketball shoes
15 Green fairy heels
17 Frilled Socks low heels
19 Fresh Lemon sneakers
21 Cobalt cuffed heels
22 Cool star socks
23 Arabian mules
24 Zebra high heels
27 Olive Loafers
29 Ribbon lace-up heels
30 Pansy color boots
31 Milky argyle
32 Deep mint boots
33 Queen rose
34 Hero sneaker boots
36 Vivid cork soles
37 Velcro zig-zag sneakers
38 Squash heel sneakers
39 Skip ribbon pumps
41 Jeweled Violetta
43 Western heart
49 Pistachio boots
51 Elegant mesh heels
52 Orange mesh sneakers
54 Little heart heels
55 Pearly heels
60 Floral scrunch
62 Turquoise passion

Hair
5 Marine Hair
6 Cool knit
7 Girlie curly long
8 Long pull-up
9 Tomboy hair
10 Pigtail french braids
12 Pompadour short
13 Pixie cut
15 American casual cap
16 Flowy semi-long
17 Magic curl
18 Petite buns
19 Japanese style bangs
20 Ribbon casket
21 Cool beauty hair
23 Gorgeous venus hair
24 Chain straw
25 Mx2 side curls
26 Oriental chignon
27 Flip one-length hair
29 French braid wavy hair
30 Romantic wave hair
31 Pom-pom buns
33 Layered look
34 Braided band
35 Braided pineapple
36 Fluffy grace
40 Camou-dreds

Special Items
1 Miracle foundation
2 Magical hair color
3 Miracle hair color
4 Magical time plus
5 Miracle foot color
6 Miracle eyewear
7 Magical eyewear
8 Gorgeous eyewear
9 Magical hat color

KinderGolf

2009-01-08T22:37:00.005+08:00

Before the start of 2009, Samantha embarked on a new skill - Golf. We enrolled her in the KinderGolf program which she is taking every Friday. She did quite well during her trial class and the teacher was very encouraging! While Nicky needed no further "encouragement" to enrol Sam, knowing she was quite good at it did convince me. And you know what, she totally enjoys the program. Will post more pictures soon after her session tomorrow. For now, take a glance at her cute uniform.

New Year Escape

2009-01-08T22:21:00.004+08:00

My whole family escaped at Ascott for the New Years! I was pretty impressed with Ascott since I only go there for meetings hence I have never seen the rooms but they were big and fully equipped and affordable! Highly recommended!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

2008-12-28T09:22:00.003+08:00

Have a Blessed Christmas and a Peaceful New Year!
- Nicky, Rubai and Samantha Dizon

Carnival Fun

2008-12-28T09:17:00.002+08:00

Come to Karnabal sa Circle in Quezon Memorial Circle! Our family had fun accompanying Sam on the different rides!

My little Princess - gown fitting

2008-12-15T22:13:00.000+08:00

Fitting her flowergirl gown for Tita Mys' wedding ....

Christmas Program

2008-12-15T22:05:00.000+08:00

Sam (the cow) with her friend, Sofia during the Christmas program in her school.

Love and Berry Updated!

2008-11-05T09:52:00.000+08:00

Sorry for those waiting for our updated list since I was so busy past few weeks since I arrived. Anyway, as usual pls contact me if you want to get any of the cards posted below.

Clothes
6 Fitted Tee girl
7 Metallic down
9 Sparkly pearl dress
25 Sparkly purple
33 Kimono flower
34 Baby Black tee
35 Sweet apron
41 Sunlight honey
44 Floral carnation
47 Retro pleats
49 Sunflower dress
50 Go go mini one-piece
51 Sport Casual cargo
52 Lady argyle
54 Feminine b-girl
55 Clear lime girl
57 Shiny carribean
58 Canary one-piece
59 Victorian rosetta
61 Sapphire Bell Bottoms
62 Cutie red
70 Ting D Trad
72 Orange hip hung
73 Pinky Rock'N Roll
75 Off-shoulder army
78 Princess Alabesque
79 Romantic empire dress
80 Sunset beach
86 Ribbon compleno
87 Halter stripe
90 One-shoulder gem
92 Sunny smile
95 Golden Freesia
106 Pepper Hot Pants

Shoes
1 Platform Pink sneakers
6 Nadeshiko thong sandals
7 Jewelry heels
9 Starry Diva Boots
10 Pom-pom leg warmers
13 Pink ribbon heels
15 Green fairy heels
17 Frilled Socks low heels
19 Fresh Lemon sneakers
20 Tri-ribbon boots
21 Cobalt cuffed heels
22 Cool star socks
23 Arabian mules
24 Zebra high heels
27 Olive Loafers
29 Ribbon lace-up heels
31 Milky argyle
32 Deep mint boots
36 Vivid cork soles
37 Velcro zig-zag sneakers
39 Skip ribbon pumps
46 Resort crisscross

Hair
6 Cool knit
7 Girlie curly long
8 Long pull-up
10 Pigtail french braids
12 Pompadour short
14 Spicy side tail
15 American casual cap
17 Magic curl
20 Ribbon casket
21 Cool beauty hair
23 Gorgeous venus hair
24 Chain straw
25 Mx2 side curls
29 French braid wavy hair
30 Romantic wave hair
31 Pom-pom buns
32 Bejeweled Cowgirl hat
37 Melon sun visor

Special Items
1 Miracle foundation
2 Magical hair color
3 Miracle hair color
5 Miracle foot color
6 Miracle eyewear
7 Magical eyewear

Family Day

2008-11-02T22:01:00.000+08:00

Having fun playing around with photos during the Family Day at Samantha's school. Sam was soooo excited and had so much fun!

On the road

2008-10-09T13:17:00.000+08:00

Although I am always grateful for the chance to travel, there comes a point during the time when I am away that I miss the 2 things I hold most dear - Samantha and Nicky.

Thanks sis for the warm welcome. Sweeties, I am coming home!

School girl

2008-10-03T11:04:00.000+08:00

Just a peek at Samantha in her school's PE uniform. She's growing up so fast!

My grown up driver

2008-09-20T10:22:00.000+08:00

There are still some times when I cannot believe how "mature" she has become ...

Love and Berry

2008-09-20T08:26:00.001+08:00

We sold quite a lot of our duplicate cards over the last week after we posted the list here and in multiply (http://rubaidizon.multiply.com) but still some people were asking for what cards we have left. So here is our updated list. If you dont find the card you want here, still send us an inquiry as Samantha plays so often that we might have your card after I uploaded this file. If you want to trade with us or buy any of the cards (P15@) please send me an email at rubai1@yahoo.com as I cannot re-read the comments section often. Happy playing!

Clothes
9 Sparkly pearl dress
23 Active parka
40 Royal Turquoise
41 Sunlight honey
45 American Star girl
47 Retro pleats
49 Sunflower dress
50 Go go mini one-piece
52 Lady argyle
54 Feminine b-girl
55 Clear lime girl
57 Shiny carribean
58 Canary one-piece
59 Victorian rosetta
61 Sapphire Bell Bottoms
62 Cutie red
64 Fantasy doll
71 Snow fantasy
72 Orange hip hung
79 Romantic empire dress
80 Sunset beach

Shoes
1 Platform Pink sneakers
5 Lacy heels
6 Nadeshiko thong sandals
7 Jewelry heels
10 Pom-pom leg warmers
12 Pastel love sneakers
13 Pink ribbon heels
15 Green fairy heels
21 Cobalt cuffed heels
23 Arabian mules
25 Shiny planet
26 Zipper pumps
29 Ribbon lace-up heels
31 Milky argyle
32 Deep mint boots
34 Hero sneaker boots
37 Velcro zig-zag sneakers
42 Stardust high heels

Hair
5 Marine hair
6 Cool knit
8 Long pull-up
12 Pompadour short
15 American casual cap
16 Flowy semi long
17 Magic curl
18 Petite buns
19 Japanese style bangs
21 Cool beauty hair
23 Gorgeous venus hair
24 Chain straw
25 Mx2 side curls
27 Flip one-length hair
29 French braid wavy hair
30 Romantic wave hair

Special Items
2 Magical hair color
3 Miracle hair color
5 Miracle foot color
6 Miracle eyewear
7 Magical eyewear
8 Gorgeous Eyewear

HSM and Wall-e

2008-08-26T22:17:00.000+08:00

Fontana weekend

2008-08-18T08:57:00.000+08:00

Spent the long weekend at Fontana with the whole family

Expert Flowergirl

2008-08-18T07:41:00.000+08:00

It's Samantha's 2nd time to be flowergirl this year for her Tita Marvie's wedding and already she is claiming to be an expert and it seems like she is. She walked down the aisle perfectly - slowly, in the middle, holding her flower and with a big smile.

Love and Berry - still at it

2008-08-17T20:46:00.000+08:00

Recently a lot of people have been asking for a list of our duplicate Love and Berry cards. Pls find the list below. As Sam continues to play, this list will probably get more extensive in the future. If you see anything you like and want to trade or buy them (15@) pls mail me at rubai1@yahoo.com as I might not be able to check this post often.

LOVE AND BERRY DUPLICATE CARDS

Clothes
1 Lovely Strawberry
2 Comfy Casual
5 Pastel fruity
6 Fitted tee girl
7 Metallic down
9 Sparkly pearl dress
10 Petite parka knit
14 Comfy sweater
23 Active parka
28 Lacy frill
30 Baby baggy style
31 Vitamin girl
33 Kimono flower
34 Baby black tee
36 Pastel logo one-piece
38 Citrus frill dress
39 Sweet Aquamarine
40 Royal Turquoise
41 Sunlight honey
44 Floral carnation
45 American Star girl
46 Funky casual
47 Retro pleats
49 Sunflower dress
50 Go go mini one-piece
51 Sport casual cargo
52 Lady argyle
53 Glitter short
54 Feminine b-girl
55 Clear lime girl
56 Flowy mini celeb
57 Shiny carribean
58 Canary one-piece
59 Victorian rosetta
60 Pop'N Sweets
62 Cutie red
64 Fantasy doll
66 Strawberry cheer girl
67 Camouflage cats
69 Boyish layered
70 Ting D Trad
71 Snow fantasy
72 Orange hip hung
73 Pinky Rock'N roll
74 Milky pink bolero
75 Off shoulder army
77 Vanilla Sweater
78 Princess Alabesque
79 Romantic empire dress
80 Sunset beach
82 Cheerful and casual combo
83 Cropped Hoody
85 Sunflower island
87 Halter stripe
88 Raffine Amethyst
89 Dancing star
90 One-shoulder gem
91 Classic violet
95 Golden freesia
96 Hip hugger heaven
97 Candy perfection
112 Eagle flight pants

Shoes
1 Platform Pink sneakers
3 Pastel Blue high cut
4 Lace-up boots
5 Lacy heels
6 Nadeshiko thong sandals
7 Jewelry heels
9 Starry diva boots
10 Pom-pom leg warmers
11 Cross ribbon
12 Pastel love sneakers
13 Pink ribbon heels
14 Bouncy basketball shoes
15 Green fairy heels
16 Rainbow sneakers
17 Frilled socks low heels
18 White platform sandals
19 Fresh lemon sneakers
20 Tri-ribbon boots
21 Cobalt cuffed heels
22 Cool star socks
23 Arabian mules
24 Zebra high heels
25 Shiny planet
26 Zipper pumps
27 Olive loafers
29 Ribbon lace-up heels
31 Milky argyle
32 Deep mint boots
33 Queen rose
34 Hero sneaker boots
35 Elegant casual loafers
36 Vivid cork soles
37 Velcro zig-zag sneakers
38 Squash heel sneakers
39 Skip ribbon pumps
42 Stardust high heels
43 Western heart
44 Deko ribbon heels
46 Resort crisscross
51 Elegant mesh heels

Hair
1 Silky long
3 Princess hair
4 Hot bandana
5 Marine hair
6 Cool knit
8 Long pull-up
10 Pigtail french braids
11 Pretty long rolls
12 Pompadour short
13 Pixie cut
14 Spicy side tail
15 American casual cap
17 Magic curl
18 Petite buns
19 Japanese style bangs
20 Ribbon casket
22 Funky afro
23 Gorgeous venus hair
24 Chain straw
25 Mx2 side curls
27 Flip one-length hair
28 Pixie knit cap
29 French braid wavy hair
30 Romantic wave hair
31 Pom-pom buns
32 Bewejeled cowgirl hat
34 Braided band

Special Items
1 Miracle foundation
2 Magical hair color
3 Miracle hair color
5 Miracle foot color
6 Miracle eyewear
7 Magical eyewear

Hannah Montana Party

2008-07-15T20:23:00.004+08:00

Samantha’s 4th Birthday
Date: July 12, 2008
Theme: Hannah Montana Rock Concert

Samantha had a blast during her 4th birthday! She enjoyed the theme, had fun with her friends (including new ones - jacqui!) and even had a solo dance number for her guests.

She had such a great time that when she woke up the next day she told us that she dreamt about what her 5th birthday would be like! (patay!) Nicky and I had so much fun with her as well! Iba pala talaga pag medyo malaki na yung anak mo! Maybe because she is involved in the preparations already (may sarili ng opinion!) and she can verbalize well that in the end, sulit talaga lahat because you can actually feel her happiness! What is important is that she had a great time and that is all that matters to us.

As always, I would like to share our suppliers with everyone in the hope that we would be able to help someone in their party planning, in the same way we were helped by everyone else's reviews.

SUPPLIERS REVIEW

VENUE:
Loyola Grand Villas Club House
Quezon City

The location was excellent for us since it afforded us enough flexibility to move around from the house to the club house with ease. The club house was bigger than most club houses we’ve been to plus they had a stage and was well ventilated (airconditioning functioning very well). Our guests numbered around 40 kids and 100 adults and the venue was able to fit everyone including all the food carts comfortably.

The staff of the club house were very accommodating to us as well as they assigned someone to coordinate the event with our planner. However, I think the planners had some difficulties with some of their rules (hanging swags, mirror balls etc) but in the end it was managed well by Party time. I am sure all club houses have their own rules and we all just have to adjust to them.

INVITATIONS and SOUVENIR:
Adworks

I would not get anyone else but Adworks. That’s how bilib I am of Mye and her team. And again, they did an excellent job in creating Sam’s invitation to look like a Hannah Montana Concert ticket. Mye even threw in for free a Poster like Signature book in line with the theme!

We also asked Adworks to create a loot can in the same design as the invitation and everyone was all praises for the can. (I placed a close-up version of the loot cans in a previous post) Thanks Mye! Until the next time for sure!

PARTY ORGANIZER:
Party time Philippines

Someone in my e-group made a review about Party time’s quick response to e-mails and I can attest to that. Not 24 hours will pass before Melissa or her team will respond to any of my queries. We coordinated everything just by e-mail and she was able to adjust and accommodate all my requirements.

On the day of the party, there was some difficulty setting up some materials (swags and mirror ball) as there was not much they could be hanged on but still the team was able to manage it pretty well as you will see in the pictures.

I liked a lot of things with the services of Party time. One of my favorites was the Theme lootbags that came with the package we got. I was so amazed that they went out of their way to really customize it with Hannah Montana stickers and bookmarks per bag! And the lootbags were big! Not small, pamigay type. Looked really of value

The other thing the guests went crazy about was the Balloonderitas that were arranged like an arc (3 of them) over the venue. The effect was so good you wouldn’t notice that there were not too many balloons in place! A lot of people were asking to bring it home but I already committed it to my mom.

My only comment was that I felt parang kulang ang staff nila to actually help during the party (although I did see a lot of them during the set-up time). I felt that the staff could have better anticipated some of the needs during the party instead of me prompting them that we need help (prizes distribution, balloon burst). But I was the only one who noticed this and very minor kasi super hands-on ako like most moms so na-anticipate ko lahat.

Lastly, in terms of after party service, I have to hand it to Party time. Since the mirror ball I requested was not used to its full advantage (my dream was to make the atmosphere like a concert-disco), Melissa emailed me 2 days after offering to refund the cost of the mirror ball. What great service.

HOST:
Ms. Ayee Of Party time

The host was quite efficient specially in terms of time management and what we wanted for the party. She discussed with me first the details, concept, flow of the program and what else what we wanted for the party. She was quite “tutok” din with the kids and was quick to react to changes when needed (distribution of gifts). She also did balloon twisting and assisted in the Magic show. Plus naka-get up din siya like Hannah

FOOD CARTS and GLITTER TATTOO:
Yan-ple

It was my first time to work with Apple and her team and I was very, very satisfied. They came early, finished setting up early, they were kind enough to assist us in some chores when they did not have to, maganda ang service – the guests were saying they were kind and cheerful and of course masarap ang food.

I loved the theme design of the carts! Ang ganda. Plus the servings were more than enough. Lampas sa naka-set. And Apple was so kind to let us finish all kahit lampas na sa servings that was set. She even went out of her way to give me some food kasi baka hindi ko matikman. And if she did not give me food, I would probably not have tasted any.

As for the glitter tattoo, the kids and adults had a great time trying on different designs on their body parts. The artist was also very patient with the kids lining up even for repeats.

I realized afterwards that Apple had a super big event pala with ABS that coincided with my daughter’s birthday but still, she arrived before the party and was hands-on the whole time (along with her husband). Thanks a lot Apple! Sa uulitin.

CAKE:Shoppersville Bakeshop

This was the biggest revelation to me during Sam’s birthday. I have lived in the Loyola area for almost half my life so Shoppersville was a prominent place for me. Maybe because of this, I have overlooked the bakeshop until I started reading good reviews about the place so I said, why not try it? My biggest regret is my not having paid them attention these past years.

The cake exceeded all my expectations. It was so much bigger than I anticipated considering the cost. The cake is two layer with double size per layer and both layers are made of cake! The cost is equivalent to just a catalog ready 2 layer single size cake in red ribbon. Its that inexpensive! The biggest plus is that they totally designed the cake from scratch! I was sooooo impressed! From now on, it will be Shoppersville Bakeshop for my family.

My School Celebration

2008-07-14T21:35:00.002+08:00

Sam had her birthday celebration in school recently and she had a lot of fun with her classmates. The school only allows a simple celebration so we just brought in cake, spaghetti and juice for the kids. Sam was soooo happy.

Lastly, I haven't uploaded the picture but her invite for the school party was made by Perfect pixels by Melisse Baylosis. I wanted to specially mention here since it totally slipped my mind (and schedule) to have personalized invitations made and Melisse practically conceptualized, printed and arranged the delivery of our invites within 24 hours! Plus the invites turned out really nice. People said they were so cool. Thanks Melisse!

Last hurrah

2008-06-26T10:48:00.000+08:00

We went on a last outing before school starts for the little angel. We stayed overnight in White Rock in Subic and it turned out to be a pleasant surprise compared to what we were expecting. The rooms were not new but everything was in working condition. The only complain I had was that the sea water was "itchy", but I guess just for me and Dada coz Sam had a great time!

We also took the chance to go to Zoobic Safari. Sam loved the tigers and ended up buying a little tiger stuffed toy for herself.

Invites and Souvenirs for My coming Birthday

2008-06-18T10:52:00.000+08:00

More fun this time around

2008-06-09T20:44:00.000+08:00

Her first visit to Enchanted Kingdom was when she was a year old - it was exciting, fun and new. But we were even more excited now since she could already understand the whole concept of theme parks and what she was about to see. Sam was so excited and happy. We left the place with her saying - "I Love you, Enchanted!" :)

Sharing with others

2008-05-13T21:19:00.000+08:00

Mama's office had a book drive and I participated by giving my old books to the children from Iloilo. Mom took a picture of my donation. I hope the kids will like my books! I even chose them myself!

Party fun

2008-05-13T21:05:00.000+08:00

We attended the birthday party of Sam's friend and she had a blast dancing with Yaya in one of the contests!

First time flowergirl

2008-04-07T21:21:00.000+08:00

My Ninang Det got married yesterday and it was my first time to be a flower girl! My mom told me everything to expect but I was still anxious as we were lining up outside ... until I saw my mom and dada and cousins waiting for me in the church. I walked ever so slowly (and cutely) to the front of the church! Next time, I am an expert na!

Easter Carnival 2008

2008-03-26T20:11:00.000+08:00

Celebrated Easter holidays with Mom and Dada at Crowne Plaza where they had an Easter Carnival. There were mascots, games, face painting, tattoos and a whole lot more!

My First Step into the Future ... Leaving MCDC

2008-03-15T20:15:00.000+08:00

Had my first graduation today at my preschool, Montessori Child Development Center. I spent 2 full school years in this school since I was 1 year and 8 months old. Now I am graduating as I move to Poveda for Kinder I in June.

Take a glance at the Graduation program we had today and the awarding of my certificate. Mom and Dada were so proud. Lola, Tito Jo, Tita Mys, Tito Stan, Ate Sarah and Yayay were there with us. I will miss school, my classmates, the ates and teachers in MCDC.

My pink room

2008-02-12T18:35:00.000+08:00

We just moved to our new house and Sam is so happy with her pink Princess room!

Bird Watching

2008-01-25T21:59:00.000+08:00

It was a hectic Sunday for us as it happened to be Sam's Family Day at MCDC as we were busy moving houses. Family Day started early at 545am with Bird watching in UP.

More Baguio Pictures

2008-01-25T21:31:00.000+08:00

Some additional Baguio pics from Dada's camera (which is so much better!)

Holidays at the City of Pines

2008-01-09T15:19:00.000+08:00

This year our family spent the New Year Holidays in Camp John Hay in Baguio City. We were joined by my cousins so we were quite a crazy bunch this year. It was Sam's first time in Baguio and we made sure she got to see everything there was to see in the City - she went biking and boating in Burnham, mini-golfing in CJH and Horse back riding twice in Wright park. Ofcourse she insisted on riding the horse with pink hair who's names were Snow White and Belle!

Videoke Queen

2008-01-04T20:41:00.000+08:00

Sam had a great time in the KTV at the Podium dancing and singing with Yaya her fave HSM song, "We're all in this together!" GO SAM!

It was likewise her first time to ride by herself the walking animals! Was she so proud of herself!!!

Barney Live!

2008-01-03T19:57:00.000+08:00

Our whole family watched the Barney concert before Christmas at Araneta! Sam had a great time and as always focused completely on the show (as in, she never said a word!)

Christmas at Montessori

2007-12-26T22:02:00.000+08:00

For this year's Christmas party, Samantha had some vocals - she was asked to say, "Please stand up for the Philippine National Anthem" with her 2 friends and they did it! Di lang sabay-sabay but they all did it! She also had 2 other dances! Great year for her in school!

Visiting lolo

2007-11-12T11:24:00.000+08:00

The long vacation for all-souls day afforded my family to have a chance to be together. As in together since Yaya took a 4-day vacation as well so it was just the 3 of us! We spent a few days in Bulacan in my Lola's house to visit my Lolo's grave and then went malling with my Mom and Dada the rest of the days.

Trick or Treat

2007-11-12T10:22:00.000+08:00

As part of our move to our new "home", we registered Sam to join the Trick or Treat in our new village. It was her first time for such an activity and to say she was excited is an understatement! Check out her pictures!

Sam, the Norweigian Girl

2007-10-22T11:30:00.000+08:00

Sam's school celebrated United Nations Week recently and her class presented a Norweigian dance. Due to my hectic schedules at work, I wasn't able to get her a more "color-appropriate" costume. (I feel really bad about this already!) Anyway, she did extremely well during the presentation and was so happy performing.

Missing Sam

2007-10-15T12:01:00.000+08:00

I just recently arrived from several business trips that were one after the other which caused me to be away from home for 3 weeksm though not continuous as on the first weekend I arrived on Sat Am and left Monday Am for the next trip. But still, Sam could sense that I was moving a lot so when I arrived last Friday night she (and I as well) was so excited to be with each other. We had some fun in the mall since it was her first time to ride by herself in the carousel and we bought her halloween costume already.

Barbie house .... Again!

2007-09-18T11:37:00.000+08:00

While walking thru Megamall during the weekend, Yaya excitedly mentioned that she could see that there was a Barbie display at the ground floor. Ofcourse, we had to go! This was Sam's 2nd time inside the Barbie house but still the excitement never wanes!

Love and Berry

2007-09-13T14:36:00.000+08:00

Since summer, Sam has gone crazy over this arcade game called "Love and Berry" in Quantum Powerstation! And judging from the long line and the fact that they always run out of cards and card containers, it seems that it hit Manila's girls set really hard!! The game is quite simple. You get a new card everytime you play - either an outfit, a shoe, a hairstyle or special item (eye wear, hair color, foundation, shoe color, time) and then you dress up your chosen girl - either Love or Berry with the cards that you already have. After which you get to dance with them by tapping the controls in synch with the tambourine clapping on screen. Sam is quite addicted to it. She plays so often that now we have so many cards that are the same or duplicates. If any of you have kids who play the same game and have some duplicate cards you see here and want to exchange, pls drop me a line and I can send you the entire list of all the duplicate cards we have.

In the meantime, we will continue to dance to "A,B,C,D Everything is looking good now ...."

House visit

2007-09-12T13:51:00.000+08:00

Sam's MCDC class had a visit to the house of one of her classmates, Zacchary last week. She was so excited to play with her classmates and visit.

Filipino Week @ MCDC 2007

2007-09-05T17:48:00.000+08:00

Sam had a great time dressing up and celebrating Filipino week in her school. She was so proud of herself when she came home saying so many new tagalog words.

My weekend with Ate Gabby

2007-08-21T15:31:00.000+08:00

It was the last weekend of my Ate Gabby before she went back home to Houston so we spent some time last Friday eating out in Trinoma and riding the Ferris wheel in Timezone.

The next day was my Pampering day! Had a haircut with mom and dada in the parlor and had a tattoo at VIP Club Princess in Bonifacio High Street! I just love that place!

Dried Mangoes and Chocolate Hills

2007-08-13T14:54:00.000+08:00

Our family went on a 4-day trip to Cebu and Bohol with my US-based sister's family. Our group (11 of us) stayed in Plantation Bay and Pangalao Island Resort over the last 4 days. It wasn't my family' first time but it was for the rest of the gang and they truly enjoyed the tropical setting mixed with modern facilities and ofcourse the no-tipping rule! Service was so great in Plantation Bay. It's truly one of my favorite resorts in the world. We took a ferry (the New Weesam express) from Cebu to Tagbilaran and it was a first time for Sam who enjoyed the ferry ride so much. She was pointing that she saw "Ariel" several times in the water! Panglao Island Nature Resort was likewise beautiful. The forest cottages we got had a mix of nature and modern conveniences (including our own jacuzzi). Beach was great as well.

Sesame Street Concert

2007-08-13T14:39:00.000+08:00

To celebrate my birthday, Samantha, Dada, Yayay and I watched the Sesame Street concert in Aliw Theater last july 21. Sam never spoke a word the whole time the gang was on stage. She was mermerized!

Pic-a-boo

2007-08-06T17:03:00.000+08:00

Samantha had her latest pictorial in Pic-a-boo at the Block with her Ate Gabby (from Houston). Take a glance at how she's grown. Our baby is now a lady.

Waves in July

2007-07-30T14:20:00.000+08:00

The whole family spent the weekend in 8 Waves Resort and Water park in Bulacan splashing in the waves and swimming (Thanks Mom!). The whole gang stayed overnight in the 8 waves hotel and spent the whole 2 days baking under the sun. Take a look at our pictures. One funny anecdote which you will see in the pictures below - Dada and Sam were playing very far off into the wave pool with the snorkeling set of her Ate Gabby when suddenly the waves started coming (they turned it on). Sam dropped the snorkeling girl and ran with Dada to shore! hahaha

Samantha's Third Birthday

2007-07-17T11:45:00.000+08:00

Take a look at the fun we had during Samantha's 3rd Birthday in Tom's World last July 14.

Beach fun

2007-06-12T15:46:00.000+08:00

It was the first time for my daughter, Sam to go to the Beach in Caylabne Bay during the last long holidays. It was so funny when she first stepped on the sand! She didn't know what to do or say! Being a naturally "clean" girl, she was so afraid of the sand (unlike typical kids!). Even when she got used to it, she would immediately wash her hands when it was full of sand and she wouldn't hold your hand if they had sand too. When we were swimming in the water and she saw a twig floating by she said, "Mama, the beach is dirty!" Hahaha We had so much fun we intend on doing it more often.

A Princess rides sideways

2007-05-04T14:28:00.000+08:00

We spent our weekend in Tagaytay coz Dada had to attend a function given by a drug company. We brought Sam to Picnic Grove to see the butterflies again but, they were no longer there and all that is left are the horses. I asked her if she wanted to ride and she said that she did if I was with her. So she had her first horse ride in Tagaytay. And it was the first not only for her but also for Dada and Yayay. Funny!!!! Sam liked it so much that she wanted to do it again and again!

Crazy over Barbie

2007-05-03T09:11:00.000+08:00

Since 2007 came in, Sam has been so crazy over BARBIE. Particularly the Princess range - 12 Dancing Princess, Princess and the Pauper, Magic of the Rainbow, Swan Lake etc Basta anything that has a Princess in the story PLUS Cinderella. In fact, this will be the theme for her coming birthday in July. When we went out during the recent Holiday, we chanced upon a display of Barbie's house in SM North Edsa and here are her pictures ...

(To Lola and Mys, you have got to get her Barbie dolls and accessories or else she will never love you again! hahaha And for me, open toe crocs size 8.5 pls :)

Third Birthday

2007-04-24T14:37:00.000+08:00

Time flies so fast! Sam is ready to celebrate her Third Birthday on July 14, Saturday in one of her favorite places - Tom's World in Robinsons Galleria. Please join us for the event!

Check out my Slide Show!

2007-04-12T15:33:00.001+08:00

Sam's Spring Grad from Little Gym

2007-04-02T11:58:00.000+08:00

Sam ended her Spring Quarter from Little Gym 2 weeks ago and here is Teacher Via's feedback for Sam:

"Samantha has always been an attentive listener. She's also very keen to details, and because of this, she can easily perform different gymnastic skills. I love the way she challenges herself by doing more difficult skills like pull-over to front support then tummy roll. One of her favorites is jumping off the trap, which she used to be a bit afraid of. She is now more comfortable with the group and can communicate her thoughts well."

Entrapment!!!

2007-04-02T11:41:00.000+08:00

Entrapment is actually my husband's favorite movie (syempre because of CZJ!). So during my visit to Kuala Lumpur, must visit sa akin ang Petronas Towers. It wasn't my first time there but the first time manual pa my camera so I dont remember where I actually placed the pictures! I wasnt able to go up the towers again coz the training took up most of my time there.

Bye Classmates!

2007-03-19T11:15:00.000+08:00

It was graduation time at MCDC last Saturday and Sam got to perform again with her classmates who are leaving for big school already. Take a look at Sam in her printed Yellow dress singing "Ang gaan, gaan ng feeling!"

Dancing with her classmates

With Dada, Lola Rosa and Teachers Pia and Krissy

With my former batchmates and our kids

I conquered the Great Wall!

2007-03-14T11:35:00.000+08:00

Singit, story about me naman!

Our company went on our Incentive trip (which is turning out to be my fave trip for the past years!) to Beijing, China last march 1-4. The trip was so rich in terms of culture and unique experiences (GREAT WALL!) but first time that I did not spend money (total expense 3K pesos!)! Aliw din! Take a glance at my pictures!

A relaxed "me" by the Forbidden City wall. These are one of the rare times I actually have a picture as relaxed and happy looking as this. The trip was indeed a welcome break for all of us!

During the Grand Awards Night on the 1st night with my whole team! We're still missing 5 people here (2 jrs and 3 new ones).

At the Temple of Heaven

In the Forbidden City At the Tianenmen Square

At the Summer Palace

At the Great Wall of China (Badaling) where it was snowing

Ballet princess

2007-02-20T17:32:00.000+08:00

It's been a couple of weeks now that my mom has been pestering (pestering talaga ma!) to enrol Sam in a ballet class with my old school. I must admit I had apprehensions initially since I didn't want her to be forced into anything she wasn't ready for. BUT she did show signs that she wanted to dance (well ... she dances like hell every day) and when you asked her if she would dance by herself (which is our ultimate test of whether she wanted something really bad) then she would say yes. So last Saturday, I enrolled her in a baby ballet trial class at the Effie Nanas Ballet Center in Shangrila. And to our wonder, even if it was her first time, she did everything! At the end, she didn't even want to get out of her outfit! So she went malling in her ballet outfit! Funny! Now, she's so into this ballet things and princess ballerinas (barbie dancing princess) - and her Dada is backing her up all the way.

Trying to lift her legs

Doing a back bend on the floor. She can easily reach the back of her head with her feet. (mana kay mama! - there was a time, believe me! hahaha)

Dancing in class

Look at me Mama. I'm not shy!

With her classmates, counting while the other pretend to sleep

Dancing with her partner

At Avilon Zoo

2007-02-12T14:16:00.000+08:00

Samantha had her first field trip for 2007 at Avilon Zoo in Montalban. The angel was accompanied by her Yaya and Dada since Mom had (Again!) some important matters to attend to. She enjoyed so much and got real excited and tired that at the end of the trip, she told her Dad, "Dada, I want rice!" hahaha

Riding on a horse while holding Dada. When I asked her about this picture and why she was holding on to her Dada, Sam said "Takot ako horse eh."

Field trip na field trip! With the matching hat pa! She hates the sun kasi and gets really sweaty and red with little sun exposure.

Infront of one of the animal cages. Excited sila mag pose!

Teacher Pia encouraging Sam to touch the snake! Syempre, ayaw niya! Super takot siya sa ganyan eh.

With her sweetie, infront of the cages. Dada took a day's off from his clinic to go with Sam on her field trip. Thanks Dada!

Sam while carried by Teacher Krissy

Sam watching the show with her classmates

Sam playing around with her Yayay

New Year at Sofitel

2007-01-24T13:17:00.000+08:00

Here are some pictures of our whole family when we spent New Years at Sofitel in Manila.

Samantha during the New Years eve dinner by the pool side. She was so happy with the head band thing and the necklaces that was provided on the table.

Another picture at the party before Sam went to "bed".

In her Happy New Year hat! Gorgeous Blossom girl!

Lying at the pool side! So kikay, wearing all her bling-blings!

At the Mall of Asia, having dinner with the whole family

At the Star City

From our Family to yours

2006-12-29T09:18:00.000+08:00

Have a Blessed Christmas and a Peaceful New Year!

Season's Greetings from Nicky, Rubai and Samantha Dizon

Finally ... Christmas Party at MCDC

2006-12-15T15:09:00.000+08:00

Have I ever mentioned that Samantha is realy sort of ... shy ... but not really to everyone, she's just very, very hesitant with people she doesn't know. Which is why we had a hard time initially when she started with Little Gym and her pre-school now, MCDC since it takes her quite awhile to get used to her teachers. MCDC has a great program and is quite active with a lot of extra-curricular activities (which Sam loves!) for the kids like field trips and exposures and PROGRAMS (Family day etc). And I must admit, it really stresses me out when they have a program planned where the kids perform because I know it would take a little miracle to get Sam to even get up on the stage alone. True enough, during their program in August, she didn't even let go of my neck kasi sobrang daming tao talaga in the room.

I never wanted to push her to perform if she didn't want to coz:

1. Her nature is really "reserved" (mana sa ama!)

2. I don't want to make her think that she needs to perform to make us proud (even while sleeping she makes me proud na enough)

3. I don't wanna be like my mom (stage ballet mother - joke lang ma!)

Plus in August she really looked at me with her "takot" eyes and said "Mama, please, no dance". So if she doesn't want to, then it's fine with me.

So now Christmas Party comes and her class is again going to dance. Samantha actually dances VERY WELL (mana sa ina! hahaha kill me dada!) and is very attuned to the music but nobody but us at home and her teachers at school see it coz she is quite reserved nga infront of other people.

Anyway, miracle of all miracles during her Christmas Party she actually danced!!! And she did it following Teacher the whole time. (She's very focused and OC-OC about following which I think she got from answering Dora all the time hehe). Nicky and I were so, so proud of her! But I guess even if she didn't dance at all, we would still be.

On stage before the dance. Sam is in between the girl with the halo looking back and the girl with long hair and dress

"Jesus is the way" ... yipee! Tummy out pa yan!

May pa sleep-sleep ek-ek pa ha!

Almost nearing the end of the performance.

And to top it all, she performed twice during the Christmas Party!!! She made us so proud! But the funniest thing was after the program when she finally joined me and her dad (who were hiding the whole time!) the first thing she said was - "FOOD, PLS!"

More pics at the MRT

2006-12-15T14:02:00.000+08:00

I'm so excited

Mainit dito ha! I hate it hot weather

Uy yaya look oh

Look at me and Dada

Wow ang daming tao

Pa-cute in the mrt

Ang Anghel at ang MRT

2006-11-28T15:46:00.000+08:00

Samantha's school prepared a field trip activity to the MRT station yesterday and although this wasn't going to be her first train ride (her 1st was in Hongkong pa!), we wanted her to be prepared and excited to remember the experience. It was too bad that I couldn't go on leave to be with her so her Dada took some time off (thanks Dad!) to be with his sweetie! Ah, you should see the two of them ha! Parang mag-boyfriend always but that's another story!

I'm so excited!!! Where's the train?!?! Show me!!!

With her classmates before boarding the MRT

On the tracks - parang MTV star!!!

Little Gym Fall Camp 2006

2006-11-28T15:18:00.000+08:00

It's been a long, long time since I last posted here and the reason is work. Maybe I will share that experience when I have more time to write. Now I just want to post some pics of the Angel when she had her Fall Camp in Little Gym last Saturday.

Working on my project

Paano ba ito?

Mama, help!!!! And don't just look, go get me some ribbons!

Almost finished!!!!

As I like to always say when we read books - "THE END!". This is just one of my many projects. Mama said it was beautiful like me.

Family Day 2006

2006-10-20T20:27:00.000+08:00

Sam's school, MCDC had their family day in La Mesa Ecopark and we had so much fun being the "DILAW RANGERS".

During the cheering competition. We won 1st place!

At the Park, pa-cute

Macho, macho girl!

The family at the Park

Lost World - Angkor Wat

2006-09-04T17:20:00.000+08:00

If you've ever been to Siem Reap - Angkor Wat - you would definitely agree with me that this would probably be the Lost World! To have seen it on film (in Tomb Raider 1) is so different an experience as to see it live! Grabe! It is soooo haunting yet so beautiful! Wish my family was there with me (although with the number of mosquitoes parang wag na lang din!)

View of Bayon Temple from the front! Amazing place!

On top portion of one of the faces of the towers. All 4 faces have carvings on them!

My pathetic attempt with a Tomb Raider pose at Bayon temple! Looks like one of the natives from the movie! Hahaha

One of the beautiful carvings on the stone towers

Our Disneyland Fantasy

2006-08-01T15:30:00.000+08:00

On my birthday (the 21st of July) we were in Hongkong Disneyland and Samantha went crazy trying all the rides she can go on!

Our family at the entrance of Hongkong Disneyland. We were so excited! It was our first time there whole as a family!

With Dada and Tito Jojo (read: dodo) at the Hongkong Disneyland railroad.

With Dada during the 1st (read 1st meaning, madaming times!) time I went on the Dumbo the Flying Elephant!

With Mama on the Cinderella carousel

Ang init naman sa Disneyland! Hmp!

With Dada at the Mad Hatter Tea Cups

With Mickey!!!! Now she actually sleeps with a Minnie mouse doll!

With Winnie the Pooh! Yaya was hugging Pooh too much huh!

At the Jungle River Cruise! Lola and Ate Gabby were so afraid of the crocodiles and fire!

At the Festival of the Lion King show! I almost missed it since I was sleeping from the time we were lining up outside until the start of the show!

Is this all you can challenge me with world?!?! I can lift it with one finger!!! Tandandan - Super Sam!

With Dada and Ate Gabby on the Buzz Lightyear Astroblasters

The famous Disney Stars on Parade!

Our Hongkong adventure! - Airport/Airplane fun!

2006-08-01T10:10:00.000+08:00

Our whole family went to Hongkong as a treat from dear Mom (thanks ma!) last July 20-23. Sam was so mabait throughout the whole trip! Everyone was saying nga that she can definitely be brought on longer trips! As in, lakad - lakad siya! Kain - kain siya! No crying, just putting her head down when she was sleepy na kahit pa nagsho-shopping pa si mama and dada. Hahaha Check out our pics.

At the PAL Airport with Lola Baby, Tita Chris (read: Kiss), Ate Gabby (read: Dabi) and Yaya. See my Dora backpack? It contains crayons, paper, stamps and stickers for me to work on in the plane.

Watching Barney on my DVD player and eating snacks with elmo in the airplane. Dada and Mama make for some good cushions for me! Hay, how relaxing!

Samantha and Ate Gabby at the Hongkong International Airport! We're waiting for our transfers to the Hotel

With Dada infront of our hotel, Marco Polo Gateway (the family's favorite place in HK!)

Sam was so happy during her 1st time to ride the bus!!! Sobrang nakakahiya sa mga tao kasi she was shouting excitedly "Bus!", "Bus!" all the time! Hahaha Sabi nga nila, next time daw we go home to tarlac eh we should ride the bus na lang and not take the car!! Hahaha

Went to Central and Causeway in the morning and on the way back to TST, di na nakayanan ni Sam! Ayun, plumakda na before we even reached the Star Ferry! Sayang! She was so excited to ride the boat pa naman!

At nag-arcade pa talaga si Sam sa Harbour City!!! Ay, ayaw papigil! The rides were so expensive at 4 tokens per ride with 1 token at 2 HKD each (P14). So 1 ride was like P56 while here it's P7 per ride lang!

At the Light and Aqua Fantasia show with Lola (read: wowa), Lola Baby, Dada and Yaya

At Harbour city near our hotel

Samantha in her 2nd Birthday Party!

2006-07-31T14:00:00.000+08:00

We can't get enough of how cute, happy and excited Sam was during her Birthday!!! We didn't expect her to "know" how special this day was for her but she did!!! Now, its her birthday everyday!

Sam inside one of the play equipment at Bounce. She calls this picture - Sam balls!

The birthday girl, smiling and so energetic!

During the puppet show, so excited!

Excitedly pointing out to Yaya that Barney appeared! As in, Barney! Barney! Barney! hahaha

Ang tapang! Nag slide pa!!! At ayaw magpahawak kay Dada!

Pick me! Pick me, Wanlu! It's my birthday naman eh!

Samantha's 2nd Birthday - Shows!

2006-07-26T16:01:00.000+08:00

We had games, a puppet show and a magic show for Samantha's Bounce party. Sam was so, so, so excited when she saw Barney and Elmo come out! She even sat entranced when Wanlu did his magic! And ofcourse, Sam and her guests had fun at the Bouncers and the slides.

And Samantha was the real winner in the Party!!! Here she is, super happy with Ate Airene.

Guests having fun playing games!!

Sam with Ate Gabby while watching the Puppet show with Sesame street and Barney!

The Puppet Show!!!

Watching the Magic Show of Wanlu with Mom and Ate Gabby

Magic show with Illusions! Kids loved it!

Samantha's 2nd Birthday - Party Fun items!

2006-07-26T14:09:00.000+08:00

Check out the other items during Samantha's Bounce Party!

The birthday girl infront of her cake!

One of 2 welcome banners provided by Bounce with their party package! Nice no? May picture pa!

Samantha's Elmo Cake - 2 layers of all cake from Layers and Layers!

The Sesame street cupcakes!

Samantha's 2nd Birthday - Invitations!

2006-07-26T13:43:00.000+08:00

I wasn’t able to get Adworks for my daughter’s 1st birthday and since I have read such great feedback for them, I promised to get them for the 2nd birthday. And true enough, they live up to their reputation. Ang galing gumawa, very creative. As in all of the inputs was theirs na (since wala talaga aking creative bone eh).

I got the hard bound book type since Sam enjoys reading books. Mye made it into an Elmo type book and patterned the words to Elmo’s world dialogues.

Supposed to be may ribbon na lang siya to close the book since additional cost ang envelope (though talagang ang ganda ng envelope!) but noong na print na ni Mye, she forgot to put in the ribbons, so instead of redoing everything, she decided to give us the envelopes free of charge!!!

And each envelope if I remember right costs 40 pesos ata! She was so, so, so nice! Nahiya nga ako kaso she said ayaw niya talagang mapahiya sa customers niya and important that they feel happy with what they got! Feeling ko nga nalugi siya sa akin eh.

Super, super, super pleasant to work with and highly recommended!!!

Samantha's 2nd Birthday - Jelly Bellies

2006-07-25T15:21:00.000+08:00

I’ve tried using a different party organizer during my daughter’s first birthday so I could compare it to Jelly Bellies pretty well. I had a much better experience with Jelly Bellies considering I never met with Elly face-to-face, all thru e-mails and sms lang.

Elly went to the venue early and arranged everything with Bounce for the setup. When I got there an hour before the party, naka set up na lahat. Final touches na lang and final approvals of where do I want this etc.

Since Bounce did not allow hanging of piñata, pabitin, when I got there naka improvise na agad ang jelly bellies without me, so pag dating ko, solve na ang problem. Elly even lent me her stage banner free of charge. The happy carts (nachos, corn dogs and pizza) I got were all Sesame street theme.

The backpacks were specially made Elmo’s world design. They were able to insert all the additional items we had for the loot bags and set up the cake, buffet and food carts.

Joseph, the party manager, was tutok na tutok. Walang batang nakakaligtas sa name tags. And he was on top of everything. Naka advise siya agad sa akin ng next part of program, cake blowing, gifts etc. As in, I never had to think of anything. In fact, you can see in the pics, I was enjoying the program the whole time (unlike the 1st birthday). So highly recommended ko sila.

Samantha's 2nd Birthday - Bounce the venue!!

2006-07-19T14:40:00.000+08:00

It was fate that I couldn’t get a clubhouse venue for my daughter’s birthday since every venue was already reserved months in advance. A friend just casually mentioned that there was a new place in Pasig, Bounce, that accepted parties. Tried to surf the net but couldn’t find anything (they will have a web site soon). Made an appointment to see the venue and we immediately booked it that day. The place is huge (350 sqm) although when we saw it that day the venue was bare, except for the bouncers, since there was no party at that time but I knew the place had serious potential.

On the day of the party, the place became very festive! The drapes in place hanging from the roof were different colors, the banderitas were colourful as well and the extra 100 balloons I bought were hanged with the banderitas creating a party atmosphere! For the first time because of Bounce and Jelly Bellies, I was able to just sit down and watch, even during the preparations. I was just asked and said yes or no but that was it. Hay! Sulit!

The full venue - kiddy tables, adult tables and bouncers

A view of all the bouncers and play equipment

Close up of the play area

Birthday party at MCDC

2006-07-11T15:42:00.000+08:00

The day after Samantha's "official" birthday party at Bounce, she had a small celebration in her pre-school with her classmates. When she woke up that day, Dada left a small present that was missed during our opening of gifts the night before. I woke up to Sam lying on her stomach in bed, eagerly trying to unwrap her gift, chanting - "BIRTDEY SAM, BIRTDEY SAM!" Hahahaha Kelan kaya matatapos ang BIRTDEY SAM! :)

Sam takes center stage with Teacher Pia during story telling time about Birthdays!

About to blow my birthday candle! Mom forgot to get me a cake for this party so Teacher Krissy made an improvised one!

Happy Birthday song for me!!!

My first hair cut

2006-07-05T15:54:00.000+08:00

As you can see from Samantha's baby pictures, she didn't have a lot of hair so there really wasn't any reason to have a first haircut at 1 year of age. Although her dada did cut her hair but just to make the ends align with each other. Better let dada do it kasi dapat daw intelligent ang unang mag cut ng hair eh hehehe. She just had her first parlor hair cut June 11. She was afraid at first, but warmed up immediately when she realized that it wasnt too scary at all.

The princess settling down and getting her first hair cut at Cuts for Tots in Glorietta.

Singing while having her hair cut

With mom during her first parlor experience hehe

Lost in Europe

2006-07-05T14:09:00.000+08:00

Well, I wasn't really lost but our luggages were! My officemates and I left for Monaco last June 25 for a meeting and since we had some first-timers with us, and since we rarely travel in such a big group (4) we decided to tour around Paris and Amsterdam to make use of the time we were together. Take a look at our pictures. By the way, we did get back our luggages right before coming back to Manila! And, for those of you planning to go to Europe, now is the best time - SALE time!

Beautiful view of Monaco - the richest place in the World!

On my way to the Palace of Justice

In front of the World famous Monte Carlo Casino! Can't go inside coz they only allow people in formal clothing! Heck, a suit in this weather?!

Infront of the Ocean Museum

At the famous Pyramid Inversale in Museum Louvre. Being such a Da Vinci Code fan (just the book ok), I really had a high having my picture taken here! Wasn't able to do it during my last visit.

No trip to Paris would be complete without this right? The Eiffel tower from the Trocadero

Clowning around the Louvre Museum

In front of the Nicolas Church in Amsterdam

The canals in Amsterdam. The boat and bike are their major means of transportation.

End of summer school

2006-06-05T11:29:00.000+08:00

Here are the last pics of Sam attending her Summer School. She learned so much there, had so much fun and had a lot of interaction with the other kids. We were so happy with her progress!

Working on pasting some art works.

Working with Teacher and some classmates. I have so much fun doing so many new things in school

Singing with my classmates! One of my favorite activities!

Waiting for our group activity

Never knew school could be this exciting!!! hehehe

Sam the school girl

2006-05-24T14:01:00.000+08:00

Here are some more pictures of me at my preschool summer program. Our bedroom is already full of my artworks like paper dog, cat and lots of paintings (or atleast that's what they are supposed to be!). I have new teachers and they are all so nice to me! I love washing my hands before and after eating and trying out all the Montessori things they have!

Who says school is no fun never studied in my school!!! Look at me, after class, walking ... no, running happily towards my folks! Hi dad, can I go with Teacher on the swings for awhile? But only if it's not hot! (i hate the heat these days!)

Here I am, happily working alone with some rollers and dough-clay! Teacher taught me how to do it and I just continue with my work. I'm such a busy-busy girl at school!

Still working with my older classmate. As you can see, even if we're classmates, we do different things depending on what our teacher tells us. That's the Monstessori way. So he gets to work on more complicated stuff although hmmm ... I might be able to do that too. :)

This is our group - singing, dancing and reading stories! I like to sit on the mat sometimes and just watch everyone while we sing and dance!

Patch-clap, patch-clap, Good morning! Good morning! It's time to say good morning! Good morning teacher! Good morning classmates! (one of my favorite songs in school)

That's me being a good girl and packing away my paint before washing my hands with Teacher. I just looovvveeee washing my hands!

Dancing with my friends and classmates!

Sesame Beginnings ... where it all began

2006-05-23T14:10:00.000+08:00

People often ask my mom why I like (okay, love!) elmo so much and she says maybe because of Sesame beginnings! Meaning, from when I was small (was I ever?), I already had elmo as my bed mate so it followed that i loved Elmo so much! Now, I know everyone in the gang! For those who are batchmates of my mom and dada, there's Ernie, Bert, Big Bird (just Bird to me!), Cookie, Count, Grover and Snuffy (they shortened his name! And he's no longer invisible as my mom told me he used to be! har har). For us, there's Zoe monster (my dad's favorite) and a host of new ones! Check out the fun we had when we attended the Sesame beginnings program at the mall recently.

That's me! My mom entered my picture in the Baby gallery in hopes of winning the raffle! (For those of you who don't know my mom, yup, she's a "hope-we-can-get-something-cheap-here" girl! Ask my dada!) Unfortunately, my picture was too small to be picked up from the box ... but we still got 2 special prizes!!

Me and yaya trying to get close to Elmo!!! aarrggghh too many monsters!!

I'm touching Zoe's hair!!! Wow, she needs a strong shampoo! Wanna try my Aveeno? But I still love you Zoe! Will you dance the ballet for me?

Moving from Gym to Gym

2006-05-23T13:54:00.000+08:00

My last show day was held May 14 at the Little Gym East QC branch. It was both a happy (since it was officially show off day) and sad day since this branch will be closing (and turned into a new thing!) and will move to the Mandaluyong branch. Anyway, had fun with my classmates! Excuse the quality of the pics, it was my dada taking them ...

That's me! Lounging while waiting for the graduation gifts to be given out! Man, am I pooped!

That's me with my best classmate - caitlin! With us are our moms! Hi caitlin, hope we're still classmates next quarter at the Mandaluyong branch!

And here is our whole class with Teacher Paolo! This is the last time we will be in this place! Next week, classes will be in a different gym.

Convention fun

2006-05-23T12:30:00.000+08:00

Dada went to attend a convention and I stayed behind in his hotel with yaya and mama at night. We had so much fun swimming while Dada was in the gym. Ta Mys and Stan also stayed with us while Talah came on the last day. Oh, Happy birthday Tala!

That's me! Sitting by the pool and so amazed with the little fountains that they have in Dusit hotel. Mom just loves my bathing suit! Thanks Ta Mys! Buy me more!

Who says I can't swim in shallow waters??? My, is there any water at all here? Hehehe

Hi there! Welcome to Sam's world!

Me and my mom! Everyone says I look like her but don't I look so much prettier? :) Well, my lola thinks so!

Here is me and my gang again! Yaya (ate airene), Ate sarah (Talah) and me! And we are the Mommy's angels!

And this is me with my Tita Mys! She always fights with me about everything! That's because everything in my Lola's house is MINE! (or my mom's!) You better be nice to me, Ta Mys or lola's gonna get mad!

Preschool days

2006-05-04T13:29:00.000+08:00

Since a lot of people have been telling my mom that I'm pretty well behaved for my age and because my folks want to put me in an environment where I can socialize on a regular basis with some kids, I started pre-school (sort of) recently. Well, I just come twice a week to school for 3 weeks (summer program) and just for 2 hours. I get to do al kinds of fun stuff - like art, music and dancing. I have so much fun and get to practice my socialization skills and my independence. Mom and Dada are so proud of me! Oh and I get to hang out with Lola more often too. Hehehe

Hi! Here I am in preschool with my oh-so-favorite lunchbox. Wonder what we're doing today?

Wonder what time dada will pick me up today? Maybe I still have time to go on the swing? Hmmmm ....

Yipee!!! Time to go home! That's me, lining up properly and waiting for my turn to be lead out of the classroom! Mom, I never let go of my lunchbox ever!

This is the school that I go to twice a week. It's the Montessori Child Development Center near our place. My teacher is Teacher Dedette. She's so nice.

And this is where I place my lunch box and bags - see elmo hehehe Ok, ok, elmo's really my favorite!

And this Heaven after school time!!! Yipee! I play here when I wait for my dada to pick me up.

This is my first art project!!! I'm so excited!! Can you guess what this is? NO??? It's a bird!

8 Waves here we come!

2006-05-04T12:27:00.000+08:00

We just came back from a long weekend which we spent at 8 waves waterpark and hotel in bulacan. Man, am I fully booked this summer with activities!!! Mom wasn't kidding when she said we were gonna get around when I got bigger!!! Wonder where we're going next?! Too bad, Lola didn't come. We had such a blast!

Lovebirds at the Wave pool! Seems like we're on the beach right? So deceiving!!!

Hi there! Wanna swim with me?

Me in my flippers! Mom should get me new ones coz these ain't so good .. or maybe I'm too heavy! Hehe

I am so bored with you guys! I want some action! But let me get my juice first! I'm thirsty again.

Hey dada! What are all the animals doing up there? That looks like King Mufasa and King Kong! Cool!

Let's go! There are more pools to conquer! Here I come!

Hayyyyy! This swing is making me so sleepy!

Subic Escape

2006-04-24T12:08:00.000+08:00

Just came back from our weekend stay at Seorabeol Grand Leisure Hotel in Subic c/o dad's friends. We had a great time shopping at DFS and swimming. So many new hotels in the Waterfront area in Subic and I think we stayed at the newest one - small but clean.

Who says I'm not tall enough for this pool?!?! I can walk on my own, swim on my own, talk-talk-talk-talk (non-stop you see) on my own too .... I want to do everything by myself! World, you can't stop me now!!! (well, maybe mom can!)

Look at me! Am I not the sexiest thing you have ever seen? hahaha Or is he not the sexiest dad?!?! Hahaha Hey, that's my workout dad! And I'm his sexy baby!

Wow elmo! We've finally arrived after 3 hours of traffic and travel! Hope dada gets our room soon. Me and elmo have to eat.

Hey dad! Let's go swimming! Don't we just look alike? Let's go twin!

Yipee! Swimming with mom!

Hmmm ... it's getting pretty lonely here! Where's everybody? Daaaaaddddaaaaa!

Check out my new anti-rash, sunproof swim wear! Dad got me this to wear for the beach so I wont get sand on my body! Hmmm some beach! Wonder why yaya is in shorts?

Easter 2006 at the Hotel Philippine Plaza

2006-04-19T10:53:00.000+08:00

It was our first time to spend Easter in a hotel. We normally just stay at home. But since Samantha is already very active (read: malikot and madaldal), we decided to try the Easter packages being offered by Philippine Plaza (formerly Westin).

Hey stop it! The magic show with Lou Hilario is about to start!

can we keep the rabbit dada? Please .....

Like my look? It's a summer thing - my hip butterfly tattoo! Don't I just look like a movie star?!

Yahoo! I'm a bird ... no ... I'm a plane ... no ... I'm with Super DADA! And I'm wonder SAM!!

Yo! Check out my new swim shoes! Mom wants me to wear these things all the time! Look like a penguin in them though, oh well

Shopping Princess

2006-04-11T13:22:00.000+08:00

Went malling last saturday and Samantha absolutely refuses to hold hands with any of us while walking! She wanted to "mall" by herself! Even if so many people almost bumped into her, ay deadma! Hahaha Such a big, big girl she's turning out to be!

Wonder if he'll still be my shopping date when I grow up? I have to get me someone who carries my shopping bag! Whew!

One store down and more to go!!! Here comes the shopping princess! Nobody touch me!

C'mon guys! Get a move on! Have more shopping to do!

Okay dada, i got it, walk slowly, watch where I step, blah blah. Let's shop! I want to get slippers like yours!

Childhood Goodbyes

2006-03-23T11:42:00.000+08:00

(Adapted from poem by F. Witcraft)
One Hundred Years from now
It will not matter what kind of car I drove,
What kind of house I lived in,
how much money was in my bank account nor what my clothes looked like.
But the world may be a better place because I had a friend in you.

Bye Anda! About 2 days ago, my daughter said her first real Goodbye to her friend, Ananda. Samantha and Ananda are almost the same age (though not built coz Sam is more "healthy-looking" (read:chubby) -- please, not fat - than Ananda) and they have been friends ever since they were both born and raised in Katipunan. Everyday, we would see Ananda and Sam would play with her. It got so that one of the first words Sam was ever able to say was "ANDA". Every time I would see them together, it really tugs at my heart coz what they have is something that is simple, pure, genuine and true. So on the day Ananda was to leave for Australia, Sam and Ananda said goodbye with hugs and kisses. Although, they did not really know what was happening, I could sense Sam knew that this was different. Even today, when Sam sees Ananda's house, she would always ask to be brought there saying "Anda". We will always keep Ananda with Sam as she grows up so that she will always remember that she once had a childhood friend named Ananda. Goodbye Anda and hopefully by the time we see each other again you will be able to call me "SAM". We miss you! We wish you and your whole family well!